'Tis the season to be savvy - Office Parties - business opportunities created at company social gatherings

USA Today (Society for the Advancement of Education), Dec, 2003

Are you planning on attending your office holiday fete? If not, you may be passing on a career opportunity. Tracey Turner, executive director of The Creative Group, Menlo Park, Calif., a specialized staffing service placing creative and communications professionals on a project basis, advises employees to take advantage of seasonal festivities. "Missing one company activity probably won't impede an employee's career prospects, but being a perpetual no-show can cause a firm to question that person's enthusiasm and loyalty. Attending the office party can help staff members raise their visibility companywide and build camaraderie with coworkers.

"The key to making a positive impression at a corporate holiday function is to think of it as a business opportunity," adds Turner. "Be there to network and get better acquainted with colleagues--not to consume cocktails or share gossip."

Turner offers the following tips for making a good impression at your seasonal soiree:

Reach out. Make a point to meet at Least two people outside of your usual circle. Those from other departments can be valuable contacts.

Have a story to tell. Prepare one or two conversation starters, such as current news events, movies you have seen, or books you have read. Keep discussions light, avoiding sensitive topics like politics or religion. Excessive "shop talk" also is not a good idea.

Wear festive attire, but do not overdo it. If appropriate, dress up for the event, but keep it conservative. Do not wear anything overly flamboyant.

Eat beforehand. You do not want to be anchored to the hors d'oeuvre table. Snacking prior to a party will enable you to focus on mingling instead of munching. It also is wise to limit your alcohol intake to one cocktail or less.

Brush up on table manners. If the function is a formal dinner, make sure you are current on social etiquette practices for such occasions, if you are not sure which bread plate is yours (the one on your left), or what to do with your napkin when you are finished with your meal (place it neatly next to your plate), find a reference source to review.

Take pictures. Offering to take photos of coworkers is a good way to break the ice. Follow up by giving your colleagues copies of pictures that include them.

Know when to say farewell. Make your exit with the bulk of the crowd. Be sure to express your appreciation to those who planned the party and to your manager before you leave.