The holiday season is one of those unique times of the year when colleagues gather in a more relaxed setting outside of day-to-day work routines. While the atmosphere is festive, it’s still important to keep professional etiquette in mind.
Read on to gather holiday etiquette tips that apply to everyone, along with specific suggestions for people who are blind or have low vision. As professionals, we’re all held to the same standards, and a little preparation can help you enjoy yourself while making a positive impression.
Simple Tips for Your Workplace Holiday Party
Keeping these basic etiquette guidelines in mind will help you and your employer navigate the festivities with ease:
- RSVP promptly. Confirming your attendance or politely declining is appreciated.
- Be punctual. If the party lists a start and end time, arrange transportation accordingly. You don’t want anyone to feel obligated to stay with you and wait for a ride. Punctuality shows respect for the host and your colleagues.
- Dress for the occasion. Use your company’s culture and the invitation for guidance. Even in a social setting, management takes note of professionalism.
- Drink responsibly. If alcohol is served, moderation is key. Avoid moments you may regret later.
- Join the fun. Participate in games or activities with a positive attitude; they’re often designed to build teamwork.
- Follow up afterward. If you meet new colleagues or supervisors, connect with them later to express your interest in staying in touch.
- Respect the end time. If it’s an open house, stay for a reasonable amount of time, then politely make your exit.
Additional Interaction Tips
Holiday parties are a great chance to build connections. Consider the following strategies:
- Mingle and network. Meet colleagues you don’t work with daily. That connection might lead to future opportunities.
- Avoid sensitive topics. Parties aren’t the time to discuss politics, religion, or other divisive issues. Keep the mood light and positive.
- Include others. Avoid cliques and make an effort to include people in conversations so that no one feels left out.
- Respect personal space. Sometimes, people who are blind or sighted may stand close to hear better in noisy environments. Be mindful of this, as not everyone is comfortable with proximity.
- Prepare icebreakers. Think of open-ended questions like, “What’s been your favorite project this year?” or “How did you get involved with the company?”
- Limit phone use. Stay engaged with the people in the room, rather than focusing on your device.
- Balance small talk and professional talk. Start with light conversation, then shift to professional topics once you’ve established rapport.
Planning before the event can ease anxiety and ensure accessibility:
- After RSVPing, ask about the venue layout, activities, or whether there will be a buffet.
- If games are planned, discuss possible adaptations with the organizer so they are accessible.
- Identify key people you’d like to meet, such as leaders or mentors, and ask a colleague to help make introductions if needed.
Ask Questions When You Arrive
Upon arrival, take a moment to orient yourself:
- Ask about the location of the restrooms, coat check, bar, and buffet.
- Enlist the help of a colleague or venue staff to orient to the location if needed.
Transportation Plan
Transportation can be part of the evening’s logistics:
- If you catch a ride with a colleague, offer to contribute to gas.
- Be mindful of your driver’s timeline. Consider arranging alternative transportation home if you’d like to stay longer or leave earlier.
Increase Accessibility
Holiday parties can present unique challenges for those who are blind or low vision. A little planning goes a long way:
- Buffet strategies. Decide how you’ll manage your plate—whether holding it while receiving verbal guidance, positioning your guide dog away from the food line, or asking a trusted colleague to carry your plate.
- Seated meals. Ask in advance about seating arrangements so you can easily locate your spot and sit with desired colleagues.
- Gift exchanges. Request verbal descriptions of gifts or sit near someone who can provide feedback so you can fully participate.
Remember: You’re there to enjoy yourself. The goal isn’t to prove independence but to find strategies that enhance comfort.
Tips for Employers
Employers also play a role in ensuring that holiday gatherings are inclusive and enjoyable:
- Choose venues accessible by public transportation whenever possible.
- If serving a buffet, provide an overview of food options to employees who are blind or low vision.
- When assigning seats, ask employees if they’d prefer a particular location, such as near restrooms or away from loud music.
- Consider accessibility when planning activities. For example, provide braille or large print BINGO cards.
In Conclusion
Holiday parties may feel purely social, but they remain professional events, for employees who are blind or low vision, preparation and communication are key.
Never assume your employer knows your needs; employers should also never assume they know their employees’ needs. Open communication ensures that everyone can participate comfortably.
By following the tips above, you can enjoy the holiday season, strengthen workplace connections, and make the most of festive gatherings.