The company holiday party etiquette guide

The corporate holiday party can feel like a high-stakes event with tons of unwritten rules. How many drinks is appropriate? Should I introduce my plus-one to my boss? What topics are off limits? Our etiquette guide is here to answer all your burning questions about the dos and don’ts of office holiday party season.

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1. Reply to the invitation

Make sure that you RSVP to the party invitation, no matter your response. Try your best to make an appearance at the party. This is a chance to show that you’re a part of the team and further connections. Notify your host as soon as possible if you can’t go in case they have to make any changes to the reservation or catering headcount.

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2. Spend some time with your boss

The holiday office party is a great time to connect with your supervisor or boss and grow your relationship outside of the workplace. Just be careful not to monopolize their time! 

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3. Dress for the occasion

If one is given, be sure to follow the dress code on the invitation. If you are not given a dress code, you can look at the location or theme of your company gathering for clues. When in doubt, you can always wear something office appropriate or ask the organizer!

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4. Don’t over or under-stay your welcome

The point of the corporate holiday party is to mingle, unwind, and enjoy each other's company. Try to stay for the main event of the party if there is one. That could be a raffle, game, dinner, etc. If you are worried about staying too late, head home around the same time as the majority of the party. 

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5. Introduce your plus one

First and foremost, make sure that plus ones are allowed at your work holiday party. Check the invitation or reach out to the organizer to confirm. At the party, make sure to introduce your plus one to coworkers and try to weave in conversation topics that your plus one can engage with.

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6. Switch up the topic of conversation

Don’t let work be the only thing you talk about! Take the opportunity to learn more about your coworkers and their life outside of work. Ask them about their hobbies, upcoming travel plans, favorite TV shows, etc. Remember this is a work celebration, not a work meeting!  

7. Branch out of your circle

You may be tempted to stick with your circle of friends and coworkers at the party. Challenge yourself to meet someone new and learn more about them. You can ask about their work, but focus on their interests and life outside of the office. Who knows? You may end up with a new lunch buddy!

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8. Avoid any controversial topics

Avoid discussions of religion, politics, or dating life while chatting with a coworker, especially if you’ve had a few drinks. Some topics may be sensitive or uncomfortable for them even if they aren’t for you.  

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9. Eat before you go

Depending on the event, there may not be food at your office party. Eat a snack or small meal beforehand, especially if you plan on drinking at the event or have dietary restrictions. 

10. Watch your drinking 

No matter how well you can hold your alcohol, it is best to set a two drink limit for a work event. This is the safest way to avoid crossing any lines or acting unprofessional. You don’t want to do a walk of shame into the office on Monday morning!

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11. Thank the host or organizers

Don’t forget your manners! Remember to find the host or the party planning committee before you leave to say thank you. They put a lot of effort into crafting this event and a little gratitude will go a long way.

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These rules may look overwhelming, but don’t let them psych you out. A corporate holiday party is a chance to bond with your coworkers and celebrate a year of hard work. When in doubt, use your best judgment and try to follow the same code of conduct you would follow in the office. Don’t forget to have fun!

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Now that you’re an office party expert, how about planning your own work holiday party? Browse Evite’s collection of Company Holiday Party Invitations and gather the party planning committee. Need a little more wisdom for your winter party plans? Find tips for avoiding family drama during the holidays on Evite’s blog.