Etiquette Tips
Be a success this party season with these seven simple tips.
- Respond to invitations. Always RSVP early on. If you answer with a “maybe” because you’re not sure (or waiting for a better offer!) apologise if you don’t end up going. Etiquette is really nothing more than good manners.
- Find out what others are wearing. No matter how fabulous you look after completing the Party Fit Challenge, turning up in a full-length ball gown when everyone else is in jeans - or vice versa – is not a good start.
- Be at ease and relaxed. The key to success is being relaxed and confident. And, if you’re the host, make sure your guests feel that way too. Try this beforehand: take a few minutes to lie down somewhere quiet – a nice warm bath is perfect – and take long, slow breaths while you imagine yourself and others having a good time.
- Don’t drink too much. If you do, these etiquette tips will be out the window in no time! Talking too much or too loudly, saying the wrong thing, eating too much, (need we go on?) could have you cringing for months to come. So even if your company’s paying for it, go easy on the alcohol. (Who needs those extra calories anyway?)
- Be a good conversationalist. Avoid heavy subjects like politics and religion. Try to remember people’s names and make eye contact with them. Don’t gossip because you don’t know who might hear you! Top tip if you’re stuck for something to say: ask other people about themselves - kids, holidays, cars, hobbies – and be a good listener. Most people are happy to talk about themselves or their interests.
- Remember, office parties are an extension of the workplace. But that doesn’t mean talk shop all night. Employment law still applies, though, and a surprising number of disciplinary actions arise from staff parties! Letting your hair down is fine, but don’t let your professionalism slip too!
- Thank the host or organiser. Don’t leave without thanking the host. Let them know what a great time you’ve had. Then thank them by email or, if they’ve gone to a lot of effort, send a card or even flowers. Don’t be the last to leave unless you’re close to the host in some way. If you are the host, accept thanks and compliments graciously with a “thank-you for coming”.
Have fun!
