Nina Hiatt 3m 732
The views of this article are the perspective of the author and may not be reflective of Confessions of the Professions.
Whether you work for a corporate office or small business, you have most likely recently received an invitation to attend a company event. You may have marked it on your calendar with good intentions, but deep down you know that the chances of you actually showing up are slim at best. Besides, you have a perfectly valid excuse as to why you can’t make it: “I don’t like the activity”, “I have a date”, or my personal favorite—“I have nothing to wear.” Before you skip the next company party and make evening plans with Netflix and popcorn, consider these benefits of attending.
1. Employers Take Note of Your Attendance (or Absence)
Most companies do not make attendance mandatory for employees, so showing up on your own accord says something about your integrity. Your managers and employers are likely to notice whether you attend or not, and it could affect how seriously they consider you for promotions down the road on account of how invested you are in the company (both on and off the clock). Taking the time to show up to make an impression (even for a short while) can be a smart career move. The bottom line? Show your employers that you are invested in the company, and they will invest more in you.
2. An Opportunity to Build Relationships
Employee parties tend to be in a relaxed environment where socializing and networking is encouraged. You will get to know the other employees that you “click” with that you otherwise might not get a chance to associate with while on the job. It’s not often that you receive other chances to meet employees outside of your team or department, so a company party is a great place to do it. You might also find connections outside of work, since many companies combine their parties with other companies in their niche or location.
3. You Can Make a Good Impression as a Newbie
If you are new to the company, you should consider attending the majority of your company’s activities. Not only will this help you to meet people and get to know your company better, but it will also show that you care about your new job. You’re still building an impression on the company, and it’s important to make it a positive one.
4. It’s Probably Not as Bad as You Think
Office parties can get a bad rap, thanks to television shows and movies oftentimes making them seem awkward and dull. Other employees in your company may also deter you with their gossip about previous parties, making them seem worse than they actually were. Even if you are an introvert, where social events are as nerve-wracking as getting cavities filled, it’s likely that you will have a better experience with your company than you anticipated. Chances are, you’ll get some free food, have a few laughs, and then go on to enjoy the rest of your weekend.
5. You Might Actually Have Fun
It may be crazy to think that you can actually socialize with your co-workers outside of your daily work schedule and enjoy it, but it’s easier to do outside of the office and in a more casual setting. If the activity does not sound like something you would enjoy, be a good sport and give it a try anyways. You will probably have fun at least attempting it, and your example may help others come out of their shell and try it too.
Whether your company holds your corporate event in Toronto or somewhere more upscale like New York City, the point of the event is to show appreciation and boost morale. Employers try to make the activities welcoming and enjoyable for everyone, and that includes you. If you end up attending your event and find that it wasn’t up to your expectations, you can always make suggestions to HR or volunteer to help plan future events. Your attendance will benefit you in the long run, so don’t be afraid to get out there and show your employees that you are involved and proud of your company. If you need unique planning ideas, visit 401 Mini-Indy Go-Karts.
Nina Hiatt writes articles to help others find their place in the business world. In her free time, Nina blogs about many of her interests, which include gardening, technology, and baking.
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