Socializing successfully with bosses and colleagues

Radhakrishnan

During the thity years I spent in my company, there were many occasions when I participated in social events with my collegues, employees and bosses. By participating in hundreds of receptions, dinners, celebrations, , conference dinners and out of the office happenings, here are few tips as to which communication behaviors work and which ones backfire. You will agree that, handled wisely, social time with bosses can boost morale. During the frenetic work week, you encounter the boss as the source of discipline,assignments, occasional reprimands and, typically, very little personal chit chat. So it's refreshing to be around the boss when he showcases his humor, asks about your family and hobbies, and gives an unrestrained laugh. However, on such occasions, you must remember that the social scene does not erase the workplace lines of authority. Example: Because the boss likes your personality at a party does not mean you will get the next promotion, which depends instead on your professional skills.

Here are some guidelines that you should keep in mind for after-hours mingling:

1. The jokes you would tell your buddies could jeopardize your professional reputation if you share them with bosses, no matter how informal the setting. True, they might laugh out of courtesy, or maybe from discomfort. Yet you risk losing their respect. Play safe.

2. Every year, company conferences, picnics and similar outings become career graveyards for many who want to become "the life of the party."Sometimes we assume that two more drinks will help us talk more easily. That's a mistake. The impaired speaking and unsteady walk that follow those extra cocktails could brand you a drunk and undisciplined.

3. Make sure you circulate among everyone present, not just your boss. The person who talks with his or her clique and avoids everyone else nullifies the inclusive good will the event is intended to foster.

Posted on 1/1/08

K.Radhakrishnan.
4. Demonstrate that you have an interesting,meaningful life away from the company. Talk happy talk, things that people like to hear. Stay well informed about major sporting events, releases of new movies, great places to vacation, new restaurants your friends have recommended, bestselling books and national events.

5. Good listeners become our favorite people. Encourage others to talk, with comments like "very interesting," "tell me more," and "What happened next?"

6. If the occasion includes a meal, pay special attention to your table etiquette. Illustrate that you have acquired polish and grace ...

Posted in the community by K Radhakrishnan on 01/01/08