Holiday Office Party Etiquette

Oral-B Brush-Ups offer a discreet way to clean your teeth anywhere. (NC)-Whether you love them or hate them, the office party can offer opportunities and pitfalls. Everyone can recall stories about the colleague who drank too many cocktails, or someone who decided to debut his vocal talent. In order to make a good impression and use the holiday party as a springboard for career enhancement, proper etiquette should be followed. Carol Robichaud, a certified image consultant and president of KCR Image Consulting, offers advice on how to make a lasting impression. "Fifty-five per cent of your first impressions are non-verbal," said Ms. Robichaud. "Your dress, facial expressions and etiquette are just as important as what you have to say." For example, when entering a room, do not make a dash to the buffet, as it may signal to fellow guests that you have only come for the food. Ms. Robichaud recommends circulating around the room and chatting briefly with a variety of people, from the CEO to the mailroom clerk. When you do make your way over to the buffet table, be sure to use the proper serving utensils, not your fingers, and never take a bite of an appetizer and then dip it back into the sauce. Ms. Robichaud recommends taking a few small trips to the buffet throughout the evening. This will enable you to interact more easily, while also leaving a free hand to shake during introductions. As well, be sure you're not caught with food between your teeth or bad breath. Embarrassing moments such as these can be avoided with the assortment of portable oral care products on the market today. Products such as Oral-B Brush-Ups, textured teeth wipes that slide over your index finger, allow users to wipe their teeth, gums and tongue with no water or rinsing. Brush-Ups can be stored discreetly in a purse or wallet, enabling you to refresh after eating and confidently return to mingling. A portable flossing device, such as Oral-B Hummingbird, is also a handy product to keep in your purse or jacket pocket. The compact and portable device can quickly remove food from in between your teeth, eliminating the uncomfortable balancing act of mingling while maneuvering food out of your teeth with your tongue. Most important – do not overindulge. If you cannot be sure you will behave appropriately under the influence, monitor your alcoholic intake. By following some simple etiquette guidelines, you can make a positive impression, rather than be the root of an office party horror story to be retold for years to come. For additional oral care information, visit www.oralb.com. - News Canada