As corporate meeting season approaches, many professionals still view these meetings as mere moments of relaxation. It is precisely in this informal environment that hidden professional risks arise. According to strategic networking specialist Bruno Avelar, end-of-year parties are crucial environments for building internal perceptions, which can directly impact your career path. He says: “The party does not determine performance, but it determines perception. And perception moves the doors.”
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Bruno explains that since they are events outside the office routine, these occasions foster spontaneous conversations that might be difficult to happen in a formal work environment. It is in this context that so-called “invisible mistakes” arise: small situations capable of silently damaging a professional’s reputation. One major mistake is underestimating the power of informal networks. The more natural the environment, the greater the opportunity to create authentic relationships and enhance leadership image.
Some social behaviors that are covert, but noticed by peers, also represent a risk. Being alone with your team, constantly looking at your cell phone, talking excessively, adopting a closed body posture or interrupting conversations can create “silent cognitive noise,” according to Avelar. He also warns that too much relaxation can be harmful: “If you’re too relaxed, you’ve probably already gone too far. Exaggeration appears first in tone and later in speech.”
Gossip and inappropriate comments are among the most dangerous mistakes, because they instantly undermine trust. “Gossiping is seen as a lack of judgment,” he explains. “No one assigns responsibilities to someone who has no control over what they say.” On the other hand, more reserved professionals can overcome isolation through small interactions, without the need for social performance. “Communication is not social brilliance. It is presence,” he highlights.
Veiled competition between colleagues can also tarnish reputations. Secret comparisons, interruptions and disagreements create a negative impression that tends to perpetuate itself. To balance conversations, Bruno recommends cultivating genuine curiosity, and showing interest in colleagues in a natural and attentive way.
Regarding modern etiquette at corporate meetings, the expert suggests simple but effective stances: respect people’s space, avoid toxic topics, introduce colleagues to each other and do not monopolize conversations. He also warns against another hidden mistake: turning the event into an informal interview or an overt attempt at self-promotion. “A self-centered person talks a lot. A professional is objective,” he notes.
If a slip occurs, how you fix it is crucial. In the case of excessive drinking or inappropriate comments, the best strategy is to admit the mistake the next day, briefly, responsibly, and without drama.
According to Avelar, managers tend to notice, albeit silently, characteristics such as emotional maturity, ability to listen, self-control, and posture at all levels of the company. He concludes, “Behavior outside the office reveals more about professionalism than an entire resume.”