The Five People You Meet at the Holiday Party

Another year has passed, and your firm's holiday party is fast approaching. You enjoyed the last event and, unlike a certain co-worker, managed to get through the evening without doing the Chicken Dance in front of your peers. When viewed from this perspective, the evening was a success.

As you contemplate this year's celebration, however, you're interested in more than making it through the evening unscathed. After all, the holiday party is a rare opportunity to connect with co-workers you don't often interact with, including key decision makers in your company. Following are five types of people you'll likely encounter at a holiday celebration and tips for making the best impression with each.

The busy executive
If you work for a large company, you may rarely see the CEO, much less converse with her. But a holiday celebration can provide just such an opportunity. Have an idea of what you're going to say before you shake an executive's hand. (Hint: This is not the time to express your desire for a more casual dress code or dismay at the size of this year's holiday bonus.) Introduce yourself and then make light, upbeat conversation. For example, you might say how much you're enjoying the party or ask the executive about her holiday plans. Company higher-ups are often inundated with people wishing to speak to them, so don't monopolize the time; talk briefly and move on.

The chatty Cathy
This person loves to talk -- in fact, you can't get a word in edgewise. You've listened patiently as your co-worker described his food allergies, favorite sitcoms and last five vacations, and you're desperate to make a gracious getaway. Yet, each time you try to do so, your colleague launches into another long, drawn-out story. While this person's antics may be frustrating, keep in mind that he could simply lack social skills.

Your first step should be to draw others into the discussion. If you see someone standing nearby who is not already engaged in conversation, for example, try waving him over and making introductions. Once you have several people talking, the conversation is bound to grow livelier, at which point you can politely excuse yourself by letting the group know there are other guests to whom you'd like to say hello.

The wallflower
You notice someone you've never seen before hovering around the buffet table looking a tad uncomfortable. Take a chance; introduce yourself and offer to show this person around the party. She may be a new employee or client who doesn't know anyone yet. Smoothing the way for someone is a kind act, and your good intentions may even be repaid. If this person is a new hire, for example, she may be more likely to help you out in a pinch.

The rival
There's probably someone at work you're not crazy about, whether it's the co-worker who has stolen credit for your work or a colleague whose ego could fill a football stadium. While you may want to avoid this person at all costs, consider extending a peace offering at the holiday party, whether it's by paying the person a compliment or offering him the last cupcake on the dessert tray. Your efforts may not always make a difference, but you'll enjoy yourself all the more knowing that you behaved generously in the spirit of the holidays.

The awkward spouse
If dates are invited to the holiday party, you'll probably run into the awkward spouse. This person was likely dragged to the party by her significant other and would rather be anywhere else than hobnobbing with strangers. This person couldn't care less if the new campaign failed to impress management or if Carl in HR is getting a promotion. Be ready to make small talk on topics unrelated to work, such as vacation plans or hobbies. Also, avoid office gossip since whatever you say could eventually get back to your co-workers or boss.

Giving a little thought to how you interact with everyone from executives to adversaries can make the holiday event much brighter. The impressions and connections you make may prove to be especially helpful when the celebration is over and everyone is back in business mode.

Robert Half International is the world's first and largest specialized staffing firm with a global network of more than 360 offices worldwide. For more information about our professional services, please visit www.rhi.com.