Awkward Moments at the Company Party

Most of us in the business world of corporate America have attended a few company picnics, holiday season parties, or other official after work get togethers that involved eating, drinking, and all that can sometimes go with that.  Have you ever done something at an office party that you regretted for the rest of the year?  Have you known someone else who got into an embarrassing situation after one too many glasses of bubbly at the office throw-down?  Either way, you’re not alone.  It happens all the time, can be the source of much regret and chagrin, and can even cost some people their jobs.  Here are some things to avoid at the next office party to keep your reputation and job in tact:

1 — no tush on the office copier.  I had to say it.  Inevitably, someone at every office party winds up seated on the copier and getting their wares scanned.  Don’t be that pinup boy or girl!

2 — unless you brought a date or spouse, stay off the dance floor.  Things can get kind of crazy out there, and if there’s anything — anything at all — that you haven’t shared with your colleagues concerning cable internet bundles or secret office crushes, it’s going to come out under the disco light after a drink or two.  Best advice:  just don’t go there.

3 — if you are a boss, don’t give out the bonus checks at the party!  People will be more likely to start comparing salaries.  Save the bonus checks for a less conspicuous time.

4 —  don’t sing.  Just don’t!  Unless you are part of the act hired to provide entertainment, stay far, far away from the microphone and the guitar.  Remember that this is the office party, not karaoke night at the neighborhood pub.

5 — don’t overdo the drinking.  Most of the world’s worst office party gaffes are the result of overindulgence in alcoholic beverages.  There is little less flattering than the lone party animal swinging from the chandelier and kneeling before the porcelain god an hour later.

6 — keep all articles of clothing ON.  Unless it is an overcoat or wrap (or maybe even your shoes) what you wore when you arrived should stay right where you put it.

7 — don’t hit on your boss.  His wife or her husband will probably not be thrilled, and you could seriously jeopardize your job pulling s stunt like that.  If your boss is single?  Still don’t hit on her or him!  They are your boss.  Not only is it against company policy, unethical, and a conflict of interest — but it’s also tacky.

So, there are seven golden rules for avoiding awkward moments at the next office party.  If you keep those in mind, you’ll be ready the next time an event rolls around.