How to get a pay rise at the office Christmas party

Work functions can be more than an opportunity for free drinks. Photo / 123RF

The humble work Christmas function or end-of-year breakup activity may be a chance to unwind with workmates and celebrate the year's successes, but there are also additional benefits for the astute employee.

It can be an opportunity to build relationships across departments, make a good impression and get face time with the boss.

Chris Golis, author of The Humm Handbook, says workers might even be able to bring up the idea of a pay rise or promotion.

"If you're smart about it and don't come across as too much of a crawler, you can set yourself up for the year ahead by having an intelligent and meaningful conversation with your superiors," he says.

However, Golis says timing is important, as making a beeline for the executive team can make a worker look like a ruthless social climber.

The emotional intelligence expert recommends starting with a five to 10-minute conversation about ­anything but work. Family, pets and holidays are all good subjects to lead with.

"Then you can perhaps steer the conversation more towards the office environment by asking them what their best decision was this year," he says. "It is a way of stroking their ego and indirectly asking them what makes them so good.

"Conversely, if you know the company hasn't had a great year, say it's been a big year and you're looking forward to next year.

"People often forget what you do or say, but they never forget how you make them feel."

Golis recommends then politely moving on before becoming a pest.

Macquarie Ice Rink manager John Dunn says employers can equally use Christmas events to their advantage.

"Christmas parties are a way to re-evaluate your business's key messages," he says. "What kind of workplace do you want to be? What aligns with your values?"

Mr Dunn says a fun, creative and tasteful event will get employees talking and leave a lasting impression on the business name.

"Workplaces today are looking for unique activities that provide positive team experiences and take team building to the next level. From dinner on the ice, to fashion shows and learning how to skate, we've seen it all," he says. "(Bubble soccer on ice) pushes people slightly outside of their comfort zone so they come together in new ways, even if they are battling for team bragging rights at the same time."

Top tips from leadership specialist Karen Gately

1. Be grateful

If you are unhappy with the choice of event, venue or catering, keep your thoughts to yourself. Broadcasting disapproval and failing to be grateful is unlikely to be well received by the people organising the event and the people they work for.

2. Dress well

Avoid being provocative. The outfit you choose reflects not only your fashion sense but also your judgment skills. Assess what is culturally appropriate for your organisation and dress accordingly. Understand the dress code for the event and meet it.

3. Remember your manners

No matter how enticing the buffet, don't over indulge. Gluttony is unattractive to most people. Eating with your hands, leaping on the last piece of cake or burping after a swig of beer are all likely to have people questioning your maturity.

4. Understand time and place

Being sexually overt is unlikely to impress many. Seductively grinding away to the music might seem fun in the moment but is unlikely to help your career.

5. Stay a while

Spend enough time to demonstrate appreciation for the effort that has been made. Don't underestimate the extent to which your ability to be a team player is judged by your efforts to mingle and spend time with colleagues.