Office Party

Besides being the best time of the year because it's Christmas (presents anyone?) and you end another stressful (or not) year, another reason to rejoice is that the firm's (the one in working on) Christmas party is approaching and guess what? Your boss pays the bill this time. There's more. Just think of the look on your coworkers' faces when they see you all dressed up, with your hair loose and your best make up on. Not the image they have gotten used to in the boring mornings of the working days but the real you.

Even though you hear all that talk that you should not worry because no action of yours could be influencing your job, do not believe it completely. Indeed, you are allowed to have more fun than usual with your colleagues, but still, too much fun will lead to a possible axing. So I suggest you be careful, just to be on the safe side.

Here's what you should have in mind:

First of all, BE PUNCTUAL! The ability to arrive in time says a lot about a person, especially when the conclusion is drawn by the ones on which your job depends. To make sure you don't get lost, ask for the necessary directions. Also, don't forget to thank your bosses for the invite and congratulate them on how beautiful everything looks. It counts you know! Every man feels gratified when his efforts are being appreciated (ideal would be for them to return the favor).

All your coworkers are happy and display content, even if that's just an apparent one. Please mingle but remember that although you are somewhat close to most of the people at the party, some standards must be kept. Act accordingly and pretend that this is a dinner with your clients but don't be too cold. Be warm and respectful but still, keep the appropriate distance to avoid further discussions. Gossip=taboo. Stick to that one if you don't wanna look bad. Also, don't monopolize a conversation, let others feel noticed too.

Be careful with how many drinks per second you ingest, if you get my point. It's obvious why. C'mon, you don't wanna be in the center of attention for that, or the girl that makes passes at the personnel or the one that dances on the table (contrary to what the guys might say about that) or the one that gets a DUI on the way home. Let me give you one more tip: always keep your glass in your left hand so as to keep the right one free and for it not to be wet when you have to shake someone's hand, it doesn't get you a plus but a rather poor appreciation of your manners.

As for your outfit, make it business-like but not quite. I mean you don't wanna be the stiff secretary look-alike but not like a clubber either. Choose something comfortable but classy. It might be a black dress, not too short and not with a too low cleavage, pearls jewelry and classic shoes in the color of your purse or of your jewelry.

And most important, DO NOT MISS IT (the party that is)! If you must, come, mingle, do a little chit chat, eat/ drink a little and make your exit by thanking your guests and congratulating them once more for the event. Be subtle and respectful about it.

I think that covers about all. Did I say stay off the booze? Did you hear me? You there, step away from the bar!