{"id":26199,"date":"2024-11-21T15:58:47","date_gmt":"2024-11-21T15:58:47","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ibercenter.com\/?p=26199"},"modified":"2024-12-04T16:22:57","modified_gmt":"2024-12-04T16:22:57","slug":"things-you-should-not-do-at-a-company-christmas-party-a-guide-to-surviving-the-event-in-style","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/ibercenter.com\/en\/things-you-should-not-do-at-a-company-christmas-party-a-guide-to-surviving-the-event-in-style\/","title":{"rendered":"Things you should NOT do at a company Christmas Party: A guide to surviving the event in style"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
At Ibercenter we have years of experience in this type of company Christmas Party<\/strong>, which is why we wanted to leave you with this list of things you should not do at a company Christmas Party.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Holiday company meals are a nearly universal tradition. They’re that curious hybrid of a social gathering and an extension of work, with a festive twist. But despite the bright lights and holiday spirit, this event is a minefield of potential mistakes. To help you come away from this experience with your reputation intact (and even strengthened), here’s a list of things you shouldn’t do<\/strong>, along with practical advice and humor to lighten the drama.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Choosing the location for your company meal is crucial. Don’t just accept any option, especially if you’re part of the organizing team. A space that’s too small or too big can be a disaster.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n If you need advice to decide on a space at Ibercenter<\/a> we can help you. We have 3 centers located in Azca, Gran V\u00eda and Vel\u00e1zquez, where we have different room<\/a> options that we can adapt to your needs, especially if you decide to organize a snack.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you opt for a meal, try to avoid a crowded restaurant as it will make everyone uncomfortable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Tip:<\/strong> Choose a venue that has enough space for attendees to move around easily, but still encourages interaction. Also make sure the acoustics are good\u2014an environment where no one can hear each other will isolate groups. Also, make sure the venue has good ventilation (and heating, if it’s cold) to avoid anyone feeling like they’re in a Christmas sauna.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Business meals have a peculiar problem: they are \u201cwork, but not exactly.\u201d This limbo can lead to fatal mistakes, especially in attire. Avoid two extremes: going too casual (no, your reindeer sweater is not funny) or too formal (you don\u2019t need a tuxedo unless the invitation says so).<\/p>\n\n\n\n Tip:<\/strong> Stick to a \u201csmart casual\u201d style unless otherwise specified. If in doubt, ask. And remember: what you wear projects professionalism, even in a festive setting. You don\u2019t want to be remembered as \u201cthe person with the inappropriate outfit.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Punctuality is key, but it also has its nuances. Arriving too late shows disinterest and a lack of respect for the organization. On the other hand, being the first to show up can make the host nervous (especially if they are still finishing setting up the tables).<\/p>\n\n\n\n Tip:<\/strong> Aim to arrive 10-15 minutes after the appointed time. This shows that you are considerate, but not eager.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This is probably the golden rule of company meals. On these occasions, alcohol flows easily, and it is tempting to think: \u201cIt\u2019s Christmas, so what!\u201d However, there is a very fine line between being the life of the party and becoming the joke of next Monday.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Tip:<\/strong> Set a limit before you start. Alternate between alcoholic drinks and water, and eat something before you dive into the toast. If you see someone else going overboard, discreetly pitch in to keep them from ruining their night (and their career).<\/p>\n\n\n\n Even though it is a business meal, don’t forget that the purpose is also to socialize and enjoy. If you only talk about projects, reports, and deadlines, the evening can become boring or uncomfortable for everyone else.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Tip:<\/strong> Strike a balance. Talk about light topics like holiday plans, hobbies or the latest movies. Just avoid controversy: politics, religion and office gossip are not appropriate topics.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It’s natural to seek out the people you feel most comfortable with, but a company meal is an opportunity to expand your connections within the team. Staying in your comfort zone can give the impression that you’re not interested in interacting with others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Tip:<\/strong> Change seats if possible, or use the moments beforehand to chat with someone new. You may discover affinities you didn’t know you had before and, who knows, even gain an ally at work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Remember that someone put time and effort into organizing the event. Complaining about the menu, venue, or music is unprofessional and unwelcome.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Tip:<\/strong> If something is not to your liking, keep it to yourself. It is better to be grateful and acknowledge the work of those who put in the effort. If there are real suggestions that could improve future celebrations, share them gently and privately, not during the event.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
1. Don’t ignore the importance of space<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
2. Don’t underestimate the dress code<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
3. Don’t be late (or too early)<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
4. Do not abuse alcohol<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
5. Don’t just talk about work<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
6. Don’t always sit with your “usual friends”<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
7. Don’t criticize the food or the organization<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
8. Don’t abuse social media<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n