Companies hold events and parties as a way of building good interpersonal relationships among employees. Some of these common events are company anniversaries, Christmas parties, and other company-related occasions. Every employee is encouraged to socialize with other individuals during these events in order to get acquainted with people from other departments and possibly create good cordial relationships at work.
When it comes to socialization though, not everyone is trained with good and socially acceptable manners at parties. As career individuals, you are expected to manifest appropriate etiquette during corporate events and parties. Observing good manners at an occasion helps create a social environment where everyone feels comfortable and respected.
The Party Wet Blanket
A party wet blanket is someone who spoils the fun and enjoyment in a party by not participating in the activities or trying to be a hard-to-get individual when invited to join in the fun. If you do not want to be the highlight of chitchats and informal talks of the part attendees, do not be a wet blanket. Remember that you are present in the event to socialize and mingle with those around you whether they are fellow coworkers, your bosses, or business clients. So, whatever negative vibes you have must be set aside first before attending the company occasion.
Important Party Etiquettes to Remember
A very important thing to do when invited to a company event is to respond to the RSVP. This simply means confirming your attendance in the said occasion. If ever you have prior appointments, never miss to call and let the host know that you cannot make it. The ideal timeframe for responding is five days upon receipt of the invitation.
Another important consideration when attending a party is wearing the proper attire apt for the event. In most event invitations, standard business attire is required such as business suits for men and dresses for women. For a more formal occasion, adding a black tie on the suit will do as an evening wear for men and simple but elegant dresses or gowns are for the women. A business casual event does not need strictly formal clothing. Trousers and khakis paired with long sleeve shirts will do. However, for a themed party, wear attire suitable for the event.
If you are the party host, be sure you are the first person to arrive at the venue along with your committee to check on the final preparations. If you are a guest, understand that not everyone is honored to attend the corporate event so be there 15 to 30 minutes before the schedule for registration.
Handshakes and greetings are the most common forms of courtesy in an event. Make sure to greet everyone you meet with a smile and offer a firm and sincere handshake. Offering a firm handshake can go a long way in your acquaintance with other people. As a basic etiquette, when the host approaches a group of clients or guests, the guests should initiate the handshake.
The host must make sure to facilitate the introduction of the attendees. Lower ranking employees must be introduced first to higher ranking individuals. Do not forget to use titles and last names in a corporate setting.
Since a party is mostly about socializing, remember to carefully choose your topic to talk about with other colleagues. Some topics that must generally be avoided are personal health topics, money matters, lame stories, sensitive topics like religion and sex, and gossips as well.
Other Party Etiquette Rules
A corporate event is a business social event so if you are the type who has the tendency to drink too much in casual gatherings, limit your drink to two glasses in a company party. You do not want your reputation as a professional to be stained. The party host or the highest ranking official in the company for that matter should make the toast first.
Never forget your table manners. Your glass is on your right and the bread plate is on your left. The utensils must be in the 11:00 position after eating. Guests should thank the host before leaving the venue as a sign of courtesy. As a host, return the gratitude extended by sending them “thank you” notes within a week.
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