Not long after finishing high school, Danielle Di-Masi was told by an etiquette coach that she should never drink more than one glass of wine when at a party. Two was only allowed if it was a particularly long party. Now an etiquette expert herself, Di-Masi chortled when recalling this austere advice, though she now sees the underlying value in this message.
With Christmas now only one month away, businesses across Australia are preparing themselves for their annual descent into party shenanigans. The booze will be wheeled in, the boardroom converted into a disco and the usually aloof accountants will suddenly become the centre of attention. But one should never forget where they are, according to Di-Masi,
“Your work Christmas party is not your friend’s house party — know the difference,” she said. “This, and every work function of the year, is another networking opportunity — a chance to let your hair down with colleagues and management but let your hair down responsibly.”
Di-Masi said the work Christmas party is often the only time every year that you’ll have the chance to talk openly and casually with senior management. The party, therefore, provides a great opportunity to let management get to know you, so that when promotions become available in the future, those making the big decisions will know more about you.
“In these conversations, you get a chance to start building relationships with colleagues and especially management, and you can do this by showing you have a spark, you are suave and you have a passionate direction for your career.”
But making a good impression is not a given, especially when barrels of alcohol are involved. Di-Masi said there are always people who will go too far, and instead of making that positive impression on their colleagues and superiors, they will become gossip fodder for those hanging around the breakroom come Monday morning.
Anyone who’s a regular at this parties can spot those that have gone too far: their Christmas hat is askew, there’s a red wine stain on their blouse and they’re still whinging about that day they had to work overtime back in April. Di-Masi said there is one sure way to avoid being this social Siberia.
“Know what your alcoholic limits are,” said a stern but wise Di-Masi.
“We’re all adults and we are smart enough to know what our behaviour is like after each drink, so be firm with yourself and stop when appropriate.”
Danielle Di-Masi tweets at twitter.com/danielledimasi.