Typically,
people dread holiday
business events because it is not business as usual and definitely not
social. The rules, so clear to us when
we are in our cubicles, become a blur.
During
these events, there is often alcohol flowing liberally and staff appears to be
enjoying themselves, even freely talking to the boss. Yet, deep inside we know this is not an
outing with our friends. This is just
another way for people to judge how well we perform. Perform well, and we will receive some sort
of recognition; perform badly and it is back to square one.
Plus-Ones?
It
is no less tricky for the tag-a-long date. The date knows he/she needs to look sharp, be
a good conversationalist, and make a good impression. And we all know how difficult this is to accomplish
when we don’t know these people well and the stakes are high.
How
do you compliment people, listen intently, and smile as if your face will break
and not seem condescending, or look as if you have a sign on your chest that
reads: My significant other deserves that raise? Basically, we feel stressed because we worry our
actions won’t be received well.
But Isn’t This Just Another Business Meeting?
When
we approach these gatherings as our typical business-related meetings, we have
fewer problems and may even begin to enjoy ourselves (perhaps a tad).
Dress For Effect
Appearances
are always important. Dress
conservatively with good taste. Women
should avoid anything that could remotely be viewed as sexy—nothing short,
tight, or revealing. Think: If the movie character, Erin Brockovich,
would wear it, don’t wear it to a business function.
Beware Libations
Never,
never, drink at a business function. Okay,
if you must, hold the glass in your left hand, freeing your right hand for
shaking hands. Still, indulge in just one.
It’s best to have complete control of
your faculties to avoid telling everyone what the color purple smells
likes.
Plus,
alcohol has a negative connotation. Giving
the impression that you drink to excess or have little control is a huge
negative. Many people equate alcohol
intake to a personal weakness.
Networking is Communication
Networking
is all about communication, and communication is best when people listen well. Listen to those speaking and follow up with
questions that relate.
Learn
something about the attendees before the event so you will have at least three
questions to ask.
Example: One
of the executives plays golf, so come up with one question concerning
golf. Act interested in what that person
has to say and maintain good eye contact.
Eventually,
the conversation comes around offering you the opportunity to squeeze in
tidbits about yourself. Just be careful
not to gush on and on about yourself.
Class Clowns Are Not Welcome
Light
jokes are fine, but nothing heavy, political, gender-related, or ethnic. However,
unless you possess joke-telling talent, don’t risk it.
Fork & Knife Skills?
Table
manners are extremely important because we are all partially defined by our table
manners skills. With that in mind, how
could your manager feel comfortable asking you to join a group of clients for
lunch, if she has just watched you shovel food into your mouth?? Everything you do at the table may be
scrutinized.
But I’m a Vegetarian!
So,
if you are a vegetarian and the meal is selected for you, (surprise! it's meat)
eat the vegetables, move the rest of the food around the plate and plan on
eating more later. If you ask for a
different meal, it may appear as if you are picky and difficult.
Corporate Retreat: What About The Plus-Ones?
As
for the corporate retreat…well, this situation may be tricky because there are
many different corporate cultures. Still,
most often when the employee’s significant other is invited, it doesn’t matter if
the invited is married or not, and that includes the gay partner.
Yet,
appearances are everything. If this is a
resort
with a pool or beach, pack the most conservative swimsuit possible. Better yet, forget the swimming altogether,
unless that is a chosen activity by your employer.
Often
activities are planned. Typically, a
general guideline as to what clothing is required is available. Check out the itinerary and dress
accordingly. This is usually
resort-casual, which is like attire suggested at most country clubs. Attempt to dress as conservatively as
possible under the guidelines given.
Bottom Line
If
we approach these situations knowing that we need to be the best of ourselves,
we will be fine. Dress conservatively,
always display your best table manners, and relax.
More by Rebecca
Time to
Polish Our Professional Presence
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