Your manager invites you to dinner, no mistakes!
15 January 2013
Read by 1599 persons
Good news: your manager is inviting you to his home with some colleagues and spouses. Rejoice, as this is clear evidence of trust.
Respect the rules of politeness
To break the ice, some trivialities about the weather, traffic conditions or the charm of the neighborhood will be useful. Around the table, no rush. It is up to the hostess to give the signal. Similarly, do not pounce on the dishes at the risk of appearing gluttonous. Note that the starter, cheese and dessert are not to be taken twice!
Beware of sensitive topics!
In such circumstances, the difficulty lies in balancing professional and more personal topics. Be careful not to drift into risky debates: politics, the state of the world, clan stories in the company... Is your manager getting worked up about one of these topics? Let him talk, refraining from making any comment that could damage your relationship. Stick to the facts and only the facts. Also, avoid attracting too much attention or exaggerating your professional achievements: this is not the place to get a raise or a promotion!
... And beware of embarrassing questions
If your manager starts questioning you about the work atmosphere, new projects and the reorganization of the department, remain reserved! This is not the time to give your opinion. You never know, he may take you for an "informant"! It is better to diplomatically postpone your answer with a pirouette like: "I have an idea on that subject; I will have a suggestion to make..."
Take leave delicately
Do not wait for your manager to show signs of tiredness before returning home. It is up to you to give the starting signal, no later than 11 pm; this is a decent time for a first meal. If you feel that the atmosphere was not good, there is no need to send out another invitation. If, on the contrary, the bonds between you have been strengthened, this is no reason to become familiar. The next day, renew your thanks and get back to work. You will quickly know from your manager's behavior if you have joined his inner circle!
Respect the rules of politeness
To break the ice, some trivialities about the weather, traffic conditions or the charm of the neighborhood will be useful. Around the table, no rush. It is up to the hostess to give the signal. Similarly, do not pounce on the dishes at the risk of appearing gluttonous. Note that the starter, cheese and dessert are not to be taken twice!
Beware of sensitive topics!
In such circumstances, the difficulty lies in balancing professional and more personal topics. Be careful not to drift into risky debates: politics, the state of the world, clan stories in the company... Is your manager getting worked up about one of these topics? Let him talk, refraining from making any comment that could damage your relationship. Stick to the facts and only the facts. Also, avoid attracting too much attention or exaggerating your professional achievements: this is not the place to get a raise or a promotion!
... And beware of embarrassing questions
If your manager starts questioning you about the work atmosphere, new projects and the reorganization of the department, remain reserved! This is not the time to give your opinion. You never know, he may take you for an "informant"! It is better to diplomatically postpone your answer with a pirouette like: "I have an idea on that subject; I will have a suggestion to make..."
Take leave delicately
Do not wait for your manager to show signs of tiredness before returning home. It is up to you to give the starting signal, no later than 11 pm; this is a decent time for a first meal. If you feel that the atmosphere was not good, there is no need to send out another invitation. If, on the contrary, the bonds between you have been strengthened, this is no reason to become familiar. The next day, renew your thanks and get back to work. You will quickly know from your manager's behavior if you have joined his inner circle!
