The holiday season has officially arrived, and with it comes many annual office and professional organization holiday parties. These events can be a mixed bag—equal parts excitement and dread. While it’s tempting to see them as an excuse for free food, drinks, and awkward small talk, they truly can be golden opportunities to build relationships, make connections, and leave a positive impression.
That said, navigating holiday parties can feel a bit like assembling IKEA furniture without instructions: deceptively simple until you’re in the thick of it. To save you from post-party regrets (or fame for the wrong reasons), I’ve updated my guidelines for 2024. Let’s dive into the dos and don’ts to help you ace your holiday party game with confidence.
DO:
Make an Entrance (and Stay for a Bit)
Your presence matters, even if it’s brief. Whether it’s the office party or a professional networking event, showing up demonstrates interest and commitment. If you don’t have either, you should question why you’re part of that organization! Plus, if you already RSVP’d or told your boss and coworkers you’d be there, skipping out sends the wrong message. Someone planned for and likely paid for you to be there. Be the guest who shows up, not the one whose absence raises eyebrows.
Remember, It’s Still Business
Yes, there may be a DJ or an open bar, but don’t mistake this for spring break. It’s still a professional setting, and what you say and do leaves a lasting impression. Keep your personal life in check, skip the NSFW jokes, and leave those keg-stand stories where they belong—in the past.
Pace Yourself at the Bar
Two drinks are plenty—yes, even if it’s an open bar. Tempting as it may be, overindulging could land you in the highlight reel of someone’s social media story or make you TikTok Famous for all the wrong reasons. Staying polished is the ultimate holiday flex.
Dress Like You Mean It
Festive doesn’t mean flashy. Keep it polished, tasteful, and aligned with the event’s dress code. A little sparkle? Sure. Something that screams “cash-only side hustle”? Hard pass. Remember, you can always tone down overdressed, but underdressed is forever.
Talk About More Than Work
This is your chance to show your personality. Avoid the snooze-worthy opener of “So, what do you do?” and ask engaging questions like, “What’s the best thing that happened to you this year?” Connecting on a human level leaves a far better impression.
Be Digitally Conscious
Your phone should enhance the evening, not dominate it. Take photos if you must, but ask before you post anything. No one wants their awkward mid-laugh face on your Instagram story. If you’re not taking photos, stay off your phone. In fact, put it away. You should be there to interact with LIVE HUMANS, IN PERSON!
Thank the Hosts
No party plans itself. Whether it’s your office party or a professional event, someone probably worked hard to pull it off. A genuine thank you—during or after—shows you noticed and appreciated their effort. Bonus points for you if you put that in writing after the event as well.
DON’T:
Assume You Can Bring a Guest
If the invite doesn’t say “plus-one,” don’t bring one. It’s a party, not a free-for-all.
Treat the Buffet Like You’re a Prepper Stockpiling for Armageddon
Enjoy the spread, but don’t pile your plate like it’s your last meal. The shrimp platter isn’t a personal stash to be dumped in a cooler you brought, and others shouldn’t have to fight over a lone carrot stick because you took all the good stuff.
Hang Out Only With Your Friends and People You Know
This is the perfect chance to meet new people—don’t waste it by clinging to the same group you eat lunch with every day. A little small talk with a new person could lead to your next big connection.
Gossip or Get Too Personal
Leave the work drama, your home holiday chaos, and your TMI stories at the door. Keep conversations light, professional, and inclusive. “You didn’t hear this from me, but…” is never a good way to start a sentence.
Ignore the Dress Code
The invite says “festive cocktail”? Google it if you’re unsure. Showing up in jeans when everyone’s dressed all fancy screams, “I didn’t read the invite and I can’t read the room.” Your outfit should make people think “polished,” not “clueless.”
Skip the Follow-Up
Had a great conversation? Don’t let it end there. Send a LinkedIn message or email to keep the connection alive. It’s a simple gesture that makes a big difference.
By sticking to these updated dos and don’ts, you’ll handle the holiday party circuit like a seasoned pro—no awkward moments, no regrets, just meaningful connections and a reputation that sparkles as much as the decorations. Now, go forth, enjoy, and let people remember you for all the right reasons.
