Office parties, picnics and team-building events are a great way to interact with co-workers in a more casual and festive atmosphere. Regardless of the venue or activity, casual should not be confused with careless when it comes to hanging out with the boss. The following list outlines ways to keep a career intact.
Do Not Become Intoxicated
Drinking too much at an office party is a common employee misstep. Aside from the obnoxious, non-stop talking alcohol tends to bring on, there are lowered inhibitions that may require a humble apology later. No one attends a work event to inhale beer fumes and be inappropriately touched. Leave the booze alone or switch to soda after a couple of drinks.
Do Not Flirt
Even a casual office outing is still work related and is not the same as being in a bar on Saturday night. Flirting with co-workers is annoying and awkward and almost universally not welcome. This behavior is especially dangerous when the boss is on the receiving end of it. Do not flirt.
Do Not Bring Uninvited Guests
Many office events are planned months in advance and only will support a given number of people. Showing up with siblings, cousins and friends who just happen to be in town to eat, drink and tell off-color jokes on the company dime will not bode well for a career. In addition, the extra bodies may cause invited attendees to not get the refreshments, gifts or swag they are entitled to receive. Unless otherwise specified, it is best to leave the freeloaders at home.
Do Not Forget It is a Company Function
Company activities are intended as a way to get to know co-workers better without the demands and pressures of being in the office. It is also an opportunity to get introduced to people from other departments and to have informal discussions with bosses. These casual conversations should not include griping about the job, engaging in gossip and innuendo or asking for a raise. In fact, doing any of these things will likely have the effect of stalling or even ending a career.
Do Not Be the Last Person Standing
Staying too long at a company outing is like moving back home at age 40. It gets on everyone’s nerves very fast. The longer a person stays, the more likely it is that there will be drunkenness and other damaging behaviors. A good rule of thumb is to show up, stay for a couple of hours, talk pleasantly with everyone and then leave.
Do Network
While there are many do nots for a company event, a big do is networking. Since there are people mingling from different departments or even different divisions, an event is often the only chance to talk and brainstorm together. According to NY Real Estate Developer Roman Temkin, “Whether it is about various projects or the work culture in general, networking can open doors and bring opportunities for career advancement.” Those interested in transferring can get a clear picture of what goes on elsewhere in the company, which can help them decide if moving on is a step ahead or a step off a cliff.
Do Ask Questions
New employees should always attend office events. There is no better way to learn about company culture, expectations and what to avoid to get ahead. Parties are a low-pressure way to have a chat with the boss and ask pointed questions about a career path as well as being introduced to department heads and other important people.
Show Up
This point may seem obvious, but it is surprising how many excuses employees will use to duck out of a company event. Some feel the outing is not worth the time, or there are certain personalities to be avoided or the thought of hanging out with the boss gives them hives. Aside from someone dying, there is no reason to skip an office party or outing. “Being a no-show sends the message of not caring about the company or career advancement. Do not be a no-show. Suck it up and attend.”, says Mobile Entrepreneur Jonah Engler.
Following the tips above will help avoid career suicide. Heed the wisdom.
