With the nice weather approaching, your superior might invite his staff to a BBQ at his place. While some people will be enthusiastic about the idea of partying, others will be quite stressed to meet their colleagues in an informal setting. In any case, it is good to be reminded of a few rules of good conduct.
How to earn a few points …
The boss’s invitation may well have been made around the coffee machine or by a text message, but it is good taste to accept it by an email… without making it sound difficult (by wanting to add wife and children when the invitation specified that it’s for colleagues only). In addition, it will be well perceived by the boss if you arrive on time, without playing the Hollywood star and arriving an hour late. As soon as you arrive, begin by welcoming all the guests, not forgetting the chef – which would be fatal for you on Monday at the office. With regards to thanks, coming with a small present is always appreciated, especially if you have switched the traditional bottle of wine for a more appropriate or original gift (BBQ accessories, set of garden glasses, assortment of spices or a children’s game, as appropriate). Once your gift has been given and the handshaking session finished, your boss will probably notice positively if you offer to help in the kitchen, with the BBQ, pool, etc. And the cherry on top would be to send an email to the boss the next morning thanking for the efforts made which contributed to the success of the BBQ.
… and avoid losing many
Certainly, this is a small party, but don’t think you are surrounded by friends that you went wild with in your youth. In other words, say goodbye to familiarity – the miniskirt, the good pat on the back from the boss, unasked for advice, are all simply to be avoided. It’s the boss who’s at home! Everything is somewhat reserved – even if you are itching to tour the house, wait until your chef takes you on a visit. Likewise, don’t rush to the buffet to gobble up everything that comes to hand, but think about the others and also the image that you are creating for yourself. If you are the insatiably hungry type, consider having a snack before going to the BBQ. And what about alcohol? Even though, according to a study by the Society for Human Resources Management, 70% of people interviewed felt it is acceptable to drink at a company party, it’s essential to know how to be moderate. It shouldn’t be necessary to explain to you that the combination of sun + alcohol can have devastating effects – inappropriate behaviour, shattering revelations… So, consider drinking a lot of water if you don’t want your career to take a hit. Conversely, don’t be shy, embarrassed, or even contemptuous, by staying in your corner, glued to your cell phone, without mixing with your colleagues, and be open minded. Such behaviour will not impress your boss.
These are some things to think about, to do and not to do, so that this BBQ organized at your boss’s place doesn’t turn into a fiasco for you. Basically, be yourself with a hint of restraint and a hint of delicacy, and you will usually be assured of leaving, at least, no worse off than when you came.