Holiday Office Party Tip: Show Up

Employees who snub the annual office party may miss a prime opportunity tor networking, according to a list of five potential holiday party social miscues from employment Web site Monster. Office parties can provide an opportunity to branch out in an organization by meeting co-workers and managers from other departments with whom the employee might not have regulator contact.

Party absentees could also be seen as being pompous, Monster warned in a news release. It also warns that employees should be conscious that their holiday party antics could be fodder for internal gossip mongers for months to come.

As far as guests are concerned, Monster recommends “bringing someone who presents well in conversation with co-workers and superiors – not simply a person who looks good in evening wear.”

In addition, employees should not forget to reap the brownie points that may come from thanking the event organizers – or, if appropriate, the manager who approved the party.

“The most important thing employees should always remember regarding office holiday parties is, regardless of where the party is held, it is an extension of the workplace and you need to behave accordingly,” said Lori Erickson, vice president of human resources at Monster, in the release. “Employees should have fun, but remain cognizant of the fact that these events provide a great opportunity to casually network with colleagues, people in other departments, and even executives. And, of course, getting drunk and making a spectacle of yourself can haunt you long after the holidays are over.”

Additional party tips are at: http://career-advice.monster.com/business-etiquette/Office-Holiday- Party-Etiquette/home.aspx .