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That Guy, The Drunk, & Casanova
That Guy, The Drunk, & Casanova
The holiday season has arrived—and with it, invitations to parties.
You can take them as a chance to build relationships with customers, prospects and industry partners, or to be the person that everyone gossips about the next day. Here are three people sure to be at your next gathering. Try not to be one of them!
That Guy. Every business association has one—the vendor who just doesn’t get that it’s a holiday party, and that he should put his sales pitch away for the evening. I once had a new industry partner ask me to introduce her to the incoming president of our association. Since I knew the prospect very well, I thought to give her some sisterly advice before I made the introduction—just say hi, exchange cards and keep it light. She just couldn’t help it, though, and started pitching right away. Guess who never got a meeting with the president or another meeting from me?
The Drunk. For an hour or so, the Drunk will usually be the life of the party. Then things go quickly downhill. Slurring words, stumbling in heels, falling into people and spilling drinks won’t help your reputation. Let people talk about your ideas and sense of humor, not your taste for red wine.
Casanova. We can’t fight biology. Everyone has a crush now and then, and as long as we’re smart and treat people with respect, it can be harmless. But alcohol never helped anyone be reasonable. A drink or two can blur boundaries, and one more can push you across them. Two consenting adults can do whatever they like, but if you plan on asking someone to sleep with you, be certain they’ll say yes. If you’re not sure, then walk away. You’ll spare yourselves a year's worth of embarrassment.
Remember—a business association holiday party isn’t exactly work, but it’s not kicking back at home, either. So relax, laugh, and have a drink. Talk about sports, or your kids, or why you've sworn off dancing. Sometimes a human face is the best calling card for your business.
