Life in Canada Series 22 - Holiday Party Lessons

Holiday party lessons

While we're well into 2010 now and most people have taken down their holiday decorations and Christmas trees have been put out on the curb, there's one thing I'd like to talk about in today's blog — the office holiday party.

Yes, it's over, and everyone is back to business, but there are a few things worth discussing — and learning from — before you attend your next office function or party.

We're still in a recession, yet many companies do still try to put together a Christmas party to retain the tradition — and you may face future parties throughout the year, too.

Yes, frills and extras have been shaved to the minimum, and many companies have stopped inviting spouses, but parties do still happen — even if the wine isn’t of the $30-a-bottle variety.

Catering, too, has long seen its heyday, with home-service caterers now being the far more popular choice, or, even more common, simply having co-workers bring in dishes for a potluck.

Entertainment is restricted to several high-spirited team members putting together a dance, a song or a play — hired bands are a thing of the past.

However, as we all understand, times are a tough and things have to be shaped by that. It truly is the thought that counts at office parties — it's collective cheer, comradeship and networking in a social setting that takes precedence.

The office party is a great opportunity to meet and chat with colleagues who you haven't had the chance to properly catch up with throughout the rest of the year. You laugh, share stores and have some fun, which is indeed very needed in these challenging economic times.

It's also an opportunity to meet other employees who you've never met before, and to know the company's people a little better.

For example, at my company's holiday party this year, the president spent 15 minutes telling me about his last trip to Egypt and the boat cruise on the Nile he took when he heard I was born in Cairo.

So, when you find yourself at the next office function or party, just remember that it's OK to enjoy yourself, have a bit of fun (but do drink very lightly, knowing your limit — you don’t want to get tongues wagging the next day) and get to know your colleagues better.