3 Tips to Win the Office Christmas Party

Ahh, the office Christmas party is the last big holiday party of the year. Or maybe in your office, it’s the only one you have all year. The point is, this is the last chance you have to suck up to your boss before the year is up. Eyeing a raise or promotion in the New Year? Even though you’ve spent the entire year coming into work late every other day, taking convenient bathroom breaks, and leaving right before the dreaded Friday afternoon meeting, you’re still allowed to dream. And, the office Christmas party is where dreams sometimes come true. The guy in HR still gets talked about like he’s a King and all he did was bring candy for the kids (eye-roll) 5 years ago! So, you figure what do you have to lose? Your Job? Dignity? Maybe even both? Ignore the naysayers, gram your Selk'bag and read on.

WEAR A COSTUME

You’re probably thinking that costumes are for birthday parties, Halloween, and plays. However, if you want to win this, then you have to bring out the big guns. If your boss has a kid or kids, then you pretty much have this in the bag. Why do kids love costumes? Because it’s like their favorite T.V. show or movie come to life. Avoid Santa Claus costumes. Those are played out and overdone. This year we are putting on our Selk’bag!

OFFER TO HELP CLEAN UP

This one does not sound fun and has nothing to do with fun. People usually love setting up and decorating; however, when it’s time to clean-up all you usually hear are crickets as everyone conveniently disappears. Offer to stay behind and help (in front of your boss). Luckily, you don’t have to actually clean! There are a few roles you can take on:

• The supervisor: Place your hands in your pockets, walk around giving suggestions, move a few ribbons and decorations, rinse and repeat.

• The person who looks busy: The trick to this is to make sure you don’t stand in one place for too long. Also, make sure your facial expressions make it look like you are thinking about something important.

OFFER TO DJ

Everyone loves a good DJ. Everyone also hates a bad DJ. If you have no experience as a DJ, then don’t do this. That time in junior high school where you mixed a CD on your computer does not count! But, if you are a good DJ, then you have the potential to own the night. And, the person who owns the night might be in talks for a raise. A word of advice, find out what songs your boss likes before the party. Play those songs and mix in a few other genres to keep your coworkers happy. There is no point in having your boss love you when everyone else hates you!

There, we’ve given up a few of our secrets. Now, it’s your turn to make sure your name is solidified in the minds of your coworkers and most importantly your boss. Good luck!