Office parties can be the stuff of nightmares. Those colleagues you once admired and respected seem to have a personality transplant once the Scotch starts flowing. And if you are bringing your spouse along, the discomfort can be even worse. It’s difficult to enjoy the party if you don’t really want to be there.
Surviving the office party can sometimes be more about fake smiles and laughter than toasting the festive season. However, with a little bit of preparation, you and your partner can make the most of the night out together. Even in a more formal setting, you can still let your hair down a little and have some fun.
Thanks to Flickr for this festive pic
When you’re getting ready together, why not take these few minutes to get a plan of action together? If you think it will be a challenge to get away early, then you might need to come up with a good ‘emergency’ excuse! Of course, chances are you’ll both be enjoying yourselves. You may want to agree a time when you both need to leave at the end of the evening.
Getting dressed up for a party is always good fun, especially if you don’t get out as often as you’d like. For guys, a suit is appropriate. Choose a shirt you can dress up with some bling such as cufflinks and a fashion watch. Sometimes it’s nice for couples to buy each other a little gift to wear on a special night out such as this. You can check this out to see some nice watches for your husband. Some jewelry, like a necklace or earrings, is a nice gift for your wife to wear.
For the ladies, choose a dress that makes you look glamorous on the night. You might choose a longer length skirt or even a cocktail dress. After all, this isn’t just a work event – it’s a date for you both to enjoy. There is rarely anywhere to sit if your party is at the office, so pick some shoes you can be comfortable in. If you’re all heading out for a meal, you may need your shoulders covered.
It’s a good idea to provide your spouse with some insider information. Talk about some of the people that he may need to converse with. Which topics are off the menu? What would be a good conversation starter? If you are going to your husband’s office party, let him know if you would prefer to be on his arm for the evening. It can be uncomfortable when you’re in a room of strangers.
Whether the party is your work do or his, know your limit for alcohol. Embarrassing moments can become office gossip for months. The office party can be a good opportunity to bond with colleagues, or speak to your boss about your career prospects. It’s not a good idea to argue with your spouse publicly if one of you is getting a little carried away with the festive spirit. Instead, why not set yourselves a limit for the drinks?
Your colleagues will be delighted that you attended the party. And it is great to socialize with them in a more relaxed setting. Do you have any interesting stories about a past office party? I’d love to hear!
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