How to behave at a company party and not make mistakes – 12/11/2023 – Balance

As much as Christmas with family and Secret Santa among friends, the company party is already a tradition at the end of the year. But experts warn: the word “party”, despite meaning celebration, is followed by “firm” — and brings with it some rules of behavior.

The most conservative say it’s a normal working day, but instead of working, you have fun, says Paulo Sardinha, president of the Brazilian Human Resources Association (ABRH).

The get-together, however, is important to mark a transition to the next work cycle, provide greater integration and recognize the efforts of employees, says Vanessa Cepellos, professor of People and Career Management at FGV (Fundação Getulio Vargas).

A Sheet spoke with professors and leaders in the HR area to understand how you should behave at the company party and which mistakes you definitely cannot make.

1- Can I decline the invitation?

The end of year parties are an important time to socialize and get closer to co-workers in addition to everyday obligations, says Mariana Malvezzi, professor of Collaborative Team Management at ESPM (Escola Superior de Propaganda e Marketing).

Cepellos advises you to participate, if possible, even if you need to leave before the party ends. “Failing to go to a party promoted by the company can show indifference, so avoid being absent,” he says.

But there is no obligation, warns Sardinha: “No one will be fired for not going.” Even more so when the party is held outside working hours and environments. “Sometimes the party is at night, in distant environments. So, the person decides whether to go or not.”

2- What clothes to wear to the party?

You don’t have to wear office clothes, but etiquette rules apply to what you wear at party time, says Malvezzi.

It is important to assess where the party will take place, explains the teacher. For example, if it’s at a farm or club, shorts are welcome. But if it’s a party at a club, a more tidy look could be key.

Moderation and balance are also necessary when choosing what to wear, without excessive informality, experts say.

3- Can I drink alcohol?

Exaggerating drinks is one of the biggest mistakes made at the company’s party, says Sardinha. “We collect reports that people go overboard.”

According to Cepellos, it is advisable to rely on common sense when having fun, especially when it comes to drinking alcohol.

“This party is not the place for attitudes that could harm the professional’s image and reputation, given that all the guests are work colleagues and will have to live together normally after the party”, says the teacher.

The maxim is: drink in moderation.

4- What to talk about with colleagues?

As this is a work event, it is important not to restrict your contact to your closest colleagues, says Malvezzi. Circling around and talking to colleagues from other sectors and teams shows interest and openness, she says.

“Be aware that despite the festive atmosphere, this is an opportunity to make contacts and expand your network beyond the project you are currently involved in”, says the ESPM professor.

But nothing too intimate, experts warn. “It’s not a place to scold anyone,” says Sardinha. He also remembers that the hierarchy is maintained at the party. “Your boss is still your boss at the party.”

5- What definitely not to do

The president of ABRH says that the moment also does not accept harassment, such as deciding to take satisfaction from matters that occurred during the year at work. According to him, along with alcohol, this is a big mistake that can be made at a company party.

By no means exaggerate, says Malvezzi. Whether in heated conversations, interactions with colleagues or eating and drinking.

“The tip is to enjoy it in moderation, remembering that next Monday we will all be exchanging project ideas at a meeting table or on a Zoom call”, says the teacher.