How I Navigate the Christmas Party Season as an “Extroverted Introvert”

It’s officially that time of year—the Christmas parties have begun, festive lights and trees are popping up everywhere, and London is looking magical! I love this season, not just for the celebrations but for the chance to reflect on the year gone by, wrap up projects from 2024, and look ahead to 2025.

For me, these parties are a mixed bag. While they’re a great opportunity to reconnect with people I haven’t seen in ages, I’m not naturally a partygoer. As an “extroverted introvert,” here’s how the typical evening plays out:

• I accept the invites because I know I should.
• When the evening arrives, I stall. Just before logging off, I catch myself coming up with excuses to skip it—curling up on the sofa with Netflix sounds far easier.
• But if it’s in the diary, I keep my commitment.
• Once I’m there, bubbles in hand and chatting with a friendly face, I relax.
• And almost without fail, I end up having a great time.

Over the years, I’ve developed a few coping mechanisms that help me navigate these events more comfortably and enjoyably. If you’re like me - someone who loves the idea of connection but doesn’t always relish the process - these tips might help.

My Go-To Strategies for Social Events

1. Arrive Fashionably Late I schedule my arrival about 30 minutes after the official start time. That way, I can avoid walking into an empty room and don’t feel like I’ve arrived “too eager.”
2. Connect Ahead of Time Before the event, I reach out to a few people who I know will be attending. This takes the pressure off because I know I’ll have familiar faces to chat with when I arrive.
3. Ease into Conversations I start by asking light, easy questions: “What’s your connection to this event?” “What do you think of the location/music/food?” I let the conversation flow naturally—last night, it ranged from the US elections to Santa’s Christmas shopping list!
4. Ask About Their Year Asking people how their year has been or what’s currently keeping them busy is always a great icebreaker. Topics like holiday plans, outside work interests, or family (kids, especially!) usually lead to engaging conversations.
5. Set Boundaries After about 90 minutes, I give myself permission to leave. By that point, I’ve made an appearance, caught up with people, and enjoyed myself. If I choose to stay longer, it’s because I genuinely want to.

Why End-of-Year Events Matter

While social occasions like these may not be for everyone, they’re a key part of maintaining and expanding relationships. In many ways, life and business are inherently social. The natural rhythm of business life includes these moments of connection for a reason.

If you can attend a few events this season, you might be surprised by the opportunities for meaningful conversations and reconnections. For me, it’s always worth the effort.

How do you navigate social events during the holidays? I’d love to hear your strategies or favourite moments from this festive season.

Wishing you success and health,

Annette

www.CareersUnpacked.com