COLOMBO : Festivity is in the air and celebrations are on the cards. Cocktails and semi formal events are more likely this time around and if you feel a bit rusty with your manners to suit these occasions, do read on.
Connect with the host as soon as you can : With moving crowds and loads of people standing, it can be difficult to catch hold of the host unless s/he is wearing a neon hat. Since that is unlikely, ask around and locate the host. Ask how they have been, comment on how well the party is going and thank him/her for the invitation. In case you don’t get a chance to catch them again, you would have completed your etiquette obligations.
Use your left hand to hold your drink : True that you would not be shaking hands much, but even to pump your fist with another, it is best that your hands are not dripping after holding the glass.
Try not to balance both food and drinks in your hands at the same time : Am sure the hosts would have ordered plenty of food and drink for all those present; don’t overload yourself. Finish your drink, then pick a plate of goodies. Use a cocktail table if you need to sip a glass of water, but please do not leave a myriad of glasses and plates with food and drink in them lying here and there. That would be a complete waste and shows that you are careless and callous.
Read up on matters of interest for the group that is joining the cocktail : If you are not the greatest conversationalist, it is a good idea to read up on recent events, topics of interest for the crowd that would be present and be ready to partake in little chats. It would be rather dull for you and those you mingle with, if you have little to say and are unable to relate to what they say.
Introduce people to each other and introduce yourself to people : Cocktails are designed to encourage networking as one must regularly keep moving. Do not feel reluctant or shy to introduce yourself and join a conversation. Practice in front of a mirror if you must and make sure it is a confident, pleasant and sensible introduction that makes people want to welcome you in to their discussion. Always introduce people that you know; the tip on introductions is simple – whoever is senior needs to know first.
Have business cards within easy access : Business is foremost in most people’s heads when they accept an invitation for a cocktail party. Make inroads without being obtrusive and ruining the vibe of the party. Make a connection, share contact information and make a plan to discuss – try not to push for lengthy business discussions. Culminate the business chat with the exchange of business cards and venture to enjoy the event.
Dress appropriately and wear stylish but comfortable shoes : It is a party, but if you are representing your organization, you are an ambassador. Make sure your attire is suitable for the occasion, your designation and the organization you represent. If you wear uncomfortable footwear, you will find it difficult to move around and chat while standing. It becomes a nuisance if you need to sit down every now and then. Be ready for a few hours of standing and walking around.
Mind your drinks : Your image is at stake, so what you say and do should be relevant, suitable and pleasant. Be mindful of what you consume and the quantity to avoid embarrassments that can be very costly.
The purpose of the party is to enjoy, and it is also a platform for you to display how cultured, groomed and confident you are; make the most of the opportunity and go for the win. Christmas is indeed one of the most wonderful times of the year and every ounce of the Christmas spirit should be enjoyed.
Till I return with ‘Full of Etiquette’ next week, stay safe!
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Praveeni Jayasekera is the Founder and Editor of fullofetiquette.com; she is a regular advocate on the subject. She is an ACMA, CGMA; holds a BSc. Economics and Management; PG in IT and Diploma in Social Sciences. She is employed full time in the capacity of Chief Operating Officer at CL Synergy (Private) Limited; a Sri Lankan freight forwarding company. She is an ardent fan of the written word and has compiled content for numerous websites for search engine optimization (SEO) purposes, corporate profiles and blogs. She has experience in training corporate professionals on customer service and business etiquette. She conducts coaching sessions on etiquette for school children every now and then.
