What NOT to talk about at your office Christmas party |
Posted: November 23, 2013 |
Avoiding the minefieldof topics below however can majorly improve your party etiquette and ensure you make a good impression amongst your colleagues to last throughout the New Year. Politics This is a guaranteed topic where everybody has a different opinion. It’s a party, not a political rally, so avoid expressing your views on what the government should and shouldn’t be doing in order to keep conversation light-hearted and less likely to spark rambunctious debate. Political statements made during divisive discussion will stick amongst certain colleagues who oppose them, increasing the potential for grudges and long-lasting judgments to be formed, which is the last thing you want in the place you go to work every day. Religion Whether you’re a devout believer, agnostic or atheist, religion is a touchy subject. You may think your belief system is best but others will perceive your arguments as aggressive and unwelcome at a get-together where they want to let their hair down after a hard year’s work. Act the jester rather than the Jehovah ’s Witness on their doorstep, and you’ll find you’re much more likely to form positive relationships with your co-workers. Philosophy Rather than ponder the meaning of life, chances are staff members just want an opportunity to chat and have fun at an office party. Regardless of your life experiences, it’s best to steer clear of personal arguments for the bigger questions of existence. You may think you’re a standard Socrates when explaining your philosophical ideas, but surreal concepts and explanations often alienate rather than educate, which is why it’s best to keep your theories on why we’re all here at bay. Internal issues At a party when everyone has let their hair down and has had a drink or two, now isn’t the time to ask about an accident at work claim or booking time off. These issues are best handled when you back at work again when members of staff are back into their normal professional routines, as then they’ll be able to provide a more in-depth and accurate answer, as opposed to vague and uninformed response given at a party regarding extensive topics like a professional negligence claim or childcare services. Parenting For families, every parent has a different method of raising their children, from naughty steps to no chocolate during the week. The last thing you want to do therefore is to tell a parent that their own personal way of raising their kids is wrong, or produce outlandish opinions that are bound to spark unnecessary and endless debate. You can mention how proud you are of your son or daughter’s recent exam results or other achievements, but avoid stating that a certain type of education, diet and so on is best in order to appear friendly and non-confrontational. By avoiding these troublesome topics, you’ll avoid any arguments and increase the likelihood of making new friends at work and forming career-boosting connections with your colleagues.
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