Should you skip your work holiday party? Recently I’ve heard that question more than expected from several colleagues. Companies are having their holiday parties and some of their staff are wondering if these are truly optional. Some even wonder what could possibly happen if they do not attend. For all these, my answer is simple: Don’t skip your work holiday party.
An office holiday party is a way to show gratitude to employees in a personal and professional manner. These events are for the employees, to recognize their dedication throughout the year. The company has invested resources in making something to make you feel welcome and appreciated. Of course they’ll want you to attend and you should show up if you don’t have a real hardship. For that same reason you should communicate your attendance choice early (RSVP) and notify of any guests you’ll bring.
Don’t skip your work holiday party if you want to connect with others
Company holiday parties are a good opportunity to connect with others on a more personal level than during regular working hours. Work parties also offer an opportunity to get an idea of the overall culture of your organization. You can see how people in other departments show up and engage and then compare it to the dynamics in yours.
You may be right thinking that missing a party can’t be taken against you, but eventually it may not help you. People care if you show up. Furthermore, it is not uncommon for managers, in an “optional” activity, to observe that some team members do not show up at all. Some see this as a signal of who is not as engaged with the job or with those who work there. This is especially true when someone misses more activities than they attend.
If you’re going to miss anyway, inform it as early as possible. While you don’t have to offer an explanation, you should show gratitude by thanking the organizers for the invitation.
Don’t skip your work holiday party if you want to get known
Your work holiday party is a good opportunity to network and meet other coworkers. This is a good chance to establish new relationships and reinforce old ones. More so, if you’re looking to move within your organization, this is a good time to introduce yourself and get to know your potential future team members.
Finally, work parties also offer you the chance to form an emotional connection with your coworkers and others at work. Emotional connections can be more important than professional connections and may take you farther or last longer, benefitting you in the end.
About Dr. Landrau
Dr. Carmen W. Landrau is a keynote speaker in Houston, TX. She works with organizations focused on retaining women in the workforce and promoting them to executive levels. Her talks about leadership and women’s empowerment, show professional women how to work on their mindset to obtain visibility and recognition to become phenomenal leaders in their industry.
Invite Dr. Landrau to speak at your event via direct message to drlandrau.com/contact. Check her social media pages on LinkedIn, Instagram, Youtube, and Facebook.
