When it comes to your office holiday party, don’t be a Scrooge. If you’re a dungeon master that stays in your office all day with the door shut, or you work remotely, the office holiday party is a good time to let your higher-ups know that you actually are personable and can hold a conversation outside of your work email chains. If you’re a “higher-up,” it’s a good time to show your employees that you are approachable and care about them. After all, co-workers are the people that you probably spend more time with than your families. Holiday parties are a great way to let everyone know that their hard work during the past year is valued and appreciated!

If you’re a company manager or holiday party organizer, try sending out a poll with different dates for employees to choose which day they’re available or would prefer to attend. While some employees may want to finish the day a little early during the week and celebrate mid-afternoon, other employees may have hard deadlines this time of year and would prefer an evening time on a day closer to the weekend. Polls are a great way to let everyone feel included, and it makes it easy for employees to let you know if they can’t make the party. Remember too, this is a perfect time to incorporate some team building. Activities like bowling, axe throwing, and paint and sips give your employees the chance to mingle with people they may not normally see or talk to during work hours. Throw in an ugly sweater competition for some extra flair and enticement for people to join the fun!

If you’re an employee, while it’s tempting to hang with your usual work crew, try engaging with someone you don’t ordinarily interact with in the office. If there are drinks, know your limit. Remember, at the end of the day, this is a work event, so it’s best to stay professional, especially if you’re driving home and want to stay employed. Leave the work talk at work and tell your coworkers something interesting about your life outside of work to strike a conversation. If you can’t make your office holiday party because of a conflict, make sure you tell the party organizers. If you work in a small office, odds are they’re counting you in the cost. Otherwise, take off your Grinch mask and throw on your ugly sweater! Grab some food and have a good time!

Happy Holidays!

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