How to survive office parties

Posted by jeenniwill on June 21st, 2016

Office parties can be a formal social gathering that is meant to be fun but is actually riddled with micro politics and intricate social situations. It can get very exhausting to spend after work hours lobbying and networking. Especially when you add alcohol in to the equation and you have to work that much harder to keep pulling yourself back. And if you don’t go, you risk being pushed aside and someone else taking up your social position in the office. We all know that when getting ahead, social standing is just as important as skill, as much as we don’t like to admit it. So here are a few tips on how to make the most of an office party.

1. Make an effort

Make an effort to come and make an effort when you are there to socialise. Even if you are not in the mood, fake it till you make it. But be sure to not let the “fake” part show. As you will find out there is a lot of balancing involved.

2. Socialise with everyone but aim for the top

Not everyone will like you but it is a good idea to create a relationship with most people. You never know when you will need their help or support. But be sure to make the best impression on the people who have the most influence. If they like you, everyone else will want to make an effort with you. Don’t be to forceful, don’t suck up but be on their good side. It is very useful to learn how to connect with every type of person. The best way is to get them talking about themselves, find something they’re interested in and engage them in that.

3. Don’t drink too much

It’s a good idea to have a few drinks so that you relate to others better and so they don’t think you’re boring but pace yourself. You do not want to be the who embarrassed him/herself at the x-mas party. You need to always be in control of yourself so unfortunately no beer pong this time.

4. Don’t leave early

No matter how tired you are you should avoid leaving early. Usually people open up as the party goes on so you don’t want to miss that. When people drink more and more it’s a great opportunity to get people to open up and bond with you. Having allies at work will always be useful.

5. Don’t take it personally

Office politics are a game and you should not get too emotionally invested in them. That is not to say you should manipulate or be cold and calculating but a lot of times people will try and squeeze you out because you’re getting dangerously close to the boss or they might not support you in a conflict to save face even though you have a good relationship with them. Remain genuine because most people do sense insincerity and won’t trust you, but don’t get to personally involved either.

This article was written by Neza Vizintin, a content marketer for an PPC consultant agency in London.