Holiday parties have begun. Yours may be coming up. Keep in mind that your employee engagement continues even into party time.
You may be wondering what to wear to that party. Here’s a little Q&A:
Should I do a number and put on the threads for the holiday party?
Lauren Solomon, CIP, thinks it best to see the Christmas Party as an extension of the work day: “While the intention is to celebrate and connect with colleagues in a more relaxed atmosphere, consider this motto to keep yourself safe: Business First. Err on the side of too conservative rather than the other choices.”
Can’t I dress up some?
But she allows for slight exceptions. It is a party, after all. Women might add a “touch of shimmer or shine to your office best. A change of accessories and shoes will easily take you appropriately and inexpensively from daytime to holiday evening out.” And men, well, it’s not that big a deal and Solomon offers that we might consider a “‘conversational’ tie with a holiday theme or a sweater in the colors of the season.”
So, what’s too much, really?
Allie Casey, CII, warns against over-exposure. “The over-exposed employee sees this as a ‘night-on-the-town’ and shows up dressed for the clubs: red satin corset top, stretchy mini-skirt and 5-inch, peep-toe, platform heels. The vice-president is horrified and HR is directed to speak to the employee and revise the dress code immediately.” On the male side, Casey figures over-exposure is a little less ‘over’. “If jeans are acceptable work attire then jeans with the funky tuxedo jacket are party dress-up.”
Can you simplify this for me?
Both image experts offer is that we stay close to the norm.
- Start with attire perfectly acceptable for any work day.
- Add excitement around the edges, but not too much.
- A holiday touch is sure to be acceptable, but Solomon suggests you “save the full-blown reindeer suit for the local community center kiddie party.”
Lauren Solomon, MBA, AICI, CIP, heads up the comprehensive team of individuals whose work is dedicated to presenting you and your message professionally. (http://www.lsimage.com)
Allie Casey, helps organizations that want their people to develop superior communication or selling skills and with entrepreneurs who suffer from overwhelm and “do-it-alone-itis” and want to grow their businesses. (http://alliecasey.com/)
