Another glass: alcohol at company parties
The Christmas party in particular offers a good opportunity to get to know your colleagues outside the business context and promote team spirit. A text by Matthias Könning.
Company Christmas party is not a private party
However, Christmas parties can also be quite embarrassing. It's easy to get drunk and forget that you're at a company party and not a private one. The HR manager dances until the early hours of the morning, the board member tearfully talks about his failed marriage or the office manager gushes a little too loudly about the new intern...
However, it is fatal to say or do things due to excessive alcohol consumption that you regret afterwards or that nobody forgets so quickly. After all, there is a working day afterwards and it is still important to maintain your dignity and treat your team members with respect. It helps to approach the Christmas party strategically.
Avoid putting your foot in it! My 5 tips for a relaxed company party
Decide before the party whether, how much and which alcohol you will drink. Just like you decide what clothes to wear. You have a clear attitude and are firm in yourself.
Remember that there will be a working day after the party and that a lasting good working atmosphere and collegiality are important values that you don't want to jeopardize.
When you drink a glass of wine, order a bottle of water to go with it. Drink the water to quench your thirst and drink the wine to socialize and enjoy the taste. Then you'll always have something to toast with and make sure you stay hydrated at the same time.
You are responsible for your body, your feelings and your words and actions. Even if you are encouraged, asked or even coerced to drink, do not relinquish your responsibility. Think of helpful phrases beforehand on how you can avoid this, for example: "Thank you for wanting to bring me a beer. But I'm a bit slower and have my own pace." Or "I'll let you know if I need your support." Or: "Thank you for your offer. Maybe later."
Remember that a company party seems to have a lot of private aspects due to the social gathering, but it is not a private party. You are there for business reasons. So you are not "celebrating", you are having a work-free and hopefully enjoyable attendance time.
Matthias Könning is a systemic supervisor and family therapist (DGSF), trained conflict resolution helper and life coaching consultant at pme Familienservice.