Office Event Etiquette Guide: What to Do and What to Avoid

For the last year-end office event, the question always comes up: what is the best way to behave and present yourself? And what happens if I don't go? Office event etiquette is key to maintaining your professional image.

To Go or Not to Go?

Companies make extraordinary efforts in their budget and organization to celebrate the end of the year with their employees. Not attending shows a lack of consideration for this detail and a lack of belonging to the team. It is an opportunity to connect in a more relaxed environment, but without forgetting that it is still a work event.

What to Wear?

Remember that these events are still part of the company, so it's not the time to take advantage and wear revealing necklines or go in sloppy clothes. If the invitation does not indicate that it is formal, it also does not mean you can go in jeans and sneakers. A dress with a completely bare back does not show seriousness and, on the contrary, is provocative. Wearing jeans and athletic shoes can reflect irresponsibility and a lack of interest in the event.

What About Alcoholic Beverages?

You can drink in moderation. Excessive alcohol can have repercussions on your professional image and on what your bosses and colleagues think of you. If you lose your composure due to what you drink, your bad behavior can cause you problems. It is not the time to take advantage of the free food and drink and abuse it. On one occasion, two people at a year-end party were fired for over-drinking. Drinking directly from the bottle because your colleagues ask you to can be fun at the moment, but it doesn't speak well of your personal control and responsibility.

Do I Take the Centerpiece or Not?

Typically, centerpieces are not for you to take home. Event organizers use these accessories on several occasions, and it is in bad taste for you to appropriate them. If the hosts do not explicitly tell you that you can take them, it is better to leave them on the table.

To Dance or Not to Dance?

Exotic dances and movements are also not well-regarded on the dance floor. Of course, you can dance with your colleagues and have a good time, but taking the opportunity to show off your boldest moves is not necessarily appropriate.

Joy and a good attitude are necessary to enjoy the end of the year, but your professional behavior in these situations maintains the responsible image you want to project. Mastering office event etiquette is one more tool to strengthen your career.