by Gloria Petersen

Holiday parties are the perfect opportunity to demonstrate and share your “social-ability” and to broaden your workplace social circle. Impressive social skills can position you for a promotion and/or opportunity to gain a new client.

Be mindful of your reputation! It only takes one negative incident—especially at a holiday function—to destroy an individual’s stature in the workplace with clients and with peers. Consider the following tips to expand your social circle and to be sure your reputation is protected as you enjoy the holiday season.

Tip #1

Holiday behavior can demonstrate the social skills that will get you promoted or brand you as the party horror story. Worse yet, a poor display of behavior could end up on U-Tube or be the topic of discussion at the water cooler or company lounge. It’s your choice!

Tip #2

Prepare your spouse or date for the holiday gathering with a briefing on the people and the company before the party. The more you share, the more comfortable he or she will be.

Tip #3

Make sure that everyone is interacting. Whether you are the host or a guest, this gesture will demonstrate impressive leadership skills and social prowess.

Tip #4

Keep holiday conversation enjoyable by derailing a topic (or joke) if it is heading in a damaging or uncomfortable direction. Your keen insight will be noticed and appreciated. Do not engage in controversial (e.g., political) topics.

Tip #5

Keep confidential information confidential. The competition (or the media) could be present in the person of a husband, wife, or friend of a guest.

Tip #6

Be discreet with your technology. Make the people around you your priority. If you must make or receive a call or text, do so privately. Avoid answering or texting in the present of others. You are never not noticed!

Tip #7

Display impressive dining decorum. Handle your holiday meal with refinement and distinction. Handle dining mishaps discreetly.

Tip #8

Drink alcoholic beverages in moderation. It can take an hour for your body to process one alcoholic beverage. You can help control your body’s alcohol intake (and avoid a potential DUI afterward) by drinking a glass of water between each alcoholic beverage—and eat food (never drink on an empty stomach). Stay in control of YOU.

Tip #9

Dressing with good taste always makes the better statement. The holiday celebration is a wonderful time to wear your best attire and to express the more glamorous or creative (fun) side of your personality. However, if what you are wearing is too revealing, you risk making others uncomfortable.

Bottom line: Protect your reputation and the reputation of your company at holiday receptions, parties, and dinners.

Wishing you a healthy, safe, and prosperous Holiday Season.

Make the New Year the first day of your best year ever!

Gloria Petersen, CPP, is an author, trainer, and speaker on Professional Presence, Business Etiquette and Protocol. Gloria is a graduate of the Protocol School of Washington® and has received numerous certifications on her subject matter. Her four-book series, “The Art of Professional Connections,” and SME training modules represent her 30+ year legacy. Experience the learning at Gloria’s interactive seminars, workshops, and training. For details, visit GloriaPetersen.comor email direct gloria@gloriapetersen.com.