Gifts, Office Parties, Thank-Yous

OH MY! Gifts, Office Parties, Thank-Yous

Returning to a “new normal” may bring you back to the fun of gathering in professional social settings for the holiday season. In these times of fun, food, and holiday festivities, enjoy our twelve etiquette tips of the season. May your holidays be merry &bright!

KINDLY RESPOND Don’t miss responding to a requested RSVP. Your host is planning food, venue space, and seating.

RESPECT PERSONAL DECISIONS For in-person events,

respect and honor the decision of those that may choose not to attend or wear a mask. Looking for other ways to share the joy of the season may be the right choice.

DRESS FOR SUCCESS Yes, dress for success — even at an office holiday party held outside the office and after hours. You can easily dress up the mood of your look with a change of accessories: earrings, necklace, dressy clutch bag, or glitzy shoes for women and a festive tie, shirt, or dinner jacket for men. Then, complete your look with well-groomed/styled hair and finished make-up.

DON’T FAIL Arrive on time and dress venue appropriate.

INTRODUCTIONS Limit awkward moments by remembering to introduce your significant other to the host and other guests when attending social events.

GIFTS Gift-giving is not outdated and is an easy way to say, “you/your business is important to me.” These gifts may run from traditional holiday gifts you’d send to customers to more individualized ones. Know your office policies and use them as a guideline.

BUSINESS IS BUSINESS The number one mistake is forgetting you’re there for business! While it’s okay to relax, have fun and let aspects of yourself show, it’s easy to get too relaxed. Knowing the company culture and your values, and your career goals will help you find the fine line between appropriate and inappropriate. ABIDE BY HOUSE RULES Whether physically in a boss/co-worker’s home or at a place of business, follow and respect the ‘house rules.’ E.g., masks, handshakes, etc.

CORDIAL DINING The dining experience should allow you to connect and spend time with your colleagues and business associates. To do this, you need to be able to focus on the people seated with you.

TO DRINK OR NOT TO DRINK (alcohol, that is)

If you’ve been in the work world for any length, you’ve probably encountered the individual who chooses to drink and then drink some more—not recommended — even if your employer or boss is leading the way. Know your limits. No one is immune to the hazards of socializing while under the influence of too much alcohol.

NOTE OF THANKS Send a hand-written thank you note within the first 48 hours but know that a tardy thank you note is better than no thank you note.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS OR MERRY CHRISTMAS

Merry Christmas still dominates modern vernacular, despite a push over the past decade to move to a more universal “Happy Holidays.” Please do your homework, know your audience and let it guide you to a respectful conclusion.

Kelly Duggan

Kelly is an Image Consultant specializing in executive and personal image development, etiquette & communication skills. She is a certified member of the Association of Image Consultants International. Contact Kelly at: www.kellyduggan.com.

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