Partner Article

Introverts guide to the work Christmas party

The annual work Christmas party is that time of the year when the drinks flow far more than usual and you see your colleagues in a different light. It’s an evening of mingling and merriment, with a chance to let your hair down. However, the work party and December as a whole in fact, can be a challenging month for introverts. The thought of mingling and spending the evening trying to maintain conversation with people you don’t know too well can spark dread as opposed to excitement.

UK job site City Calling has pulled together some top tips for introverts to survive the upcoming Christmas shenanigans and use the party as an opportunity to get ahead.

Get there early

Entering a packed room and trying to find a suitable place to huddle in and join a conversation can be one of the trickiest parts of social events for introverts. Being one of the first people there allows you to meet people in a less hectic environment. Conversations will flow more easily and people arriving will want to join onto your conversations.

Plan ahead

Try to avoid getting worked up at the thought of the party. The more you overthink, the worse the situation in your head. If keeping the conversation going is a worry of yours think of some funny work stories you can reminisce about or ask questions that are good to keep the conversation flowing to avoid awkward pauses. Ask about their Christmas plans or what they have bought their loved ones. Try to remember details about their personal lives; do they have children or any interesting hobbies? A pre night social stalking will work a treat.

Avoid isolating yourself

Your usual reaction may be to find a quiet corner and fiddle in your bag or texting on your phone. However, avoiding this will make you appear more approachable to others. The office party can be a great way to climb the career ladder. Speaking to senior members of staff in a less formal environment allows them to get to know you on a personal level rather then in the constraints of the work environment.

Make eye contact and look interested

You may be dreaming about being back at home, but try not to let this on. Maintaining eye contact is key. Research around eye contact reveals we think poorly of those who consistently avoid eye contact during conversations. So smile, ask questions and keep things light hearted.

Fill your hands

Have a drink in your hand to stop yourself from fidgeting. Holding something in your hand can avoid unconscious gestures such as folding your arms, which makes you appear a little more guarded. Best to avoid items such as your phone though, as this may make it seem like you have better things to be focusing your attention on.

Paul David Munnelly said, “The Christmas party is a chance for introverts to step out of their comfort zone and talk to people that are not in their immediate circle. Mingle with as many employees as possible, as you never know how many opportunities can spring from your interactions”.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Molly Howard .