Office party dilemma...?

There is an office party this Friday at my job place and I don't feel like going at all. I'm the youngest employee, I'm new and I'm not a very party-loving person. I need either a good excuse not to be there or some reasons to actually attend the party. What's the fun in going to office parties anyway?

Office party dilemma...?
Get to know the people you work with, in another way than working. It can be fun, you might be in the center of attention there cause you are new, and people want to know you.
Reply:I would attend because it is a golden opportunity to get to know your coworkers outside the workplace. You might see them in a new light, and they might be more welcoming at the worksite once they see other facets of you.





On a more political note, some organizations take an informal headcount at these events to see who is a "team player". If you are counting on advancing in this company or staying long term, I'd go just to cover my butt. It's stupid, but it's often true.





I am rather shy and awkward around strangers myself. I give myself a goal to cope and I give myself a time limit. I will schedule plans with friends at a certain time after the event, then tell myself to meet and greet 10 people (or judge for yourself, depending on the event type and size of your team). Once I accomplish my goals, I get the heck outta there.
Reply:I do not want to repeat everything the other people have already mentioned and I agree. However, want to add that it is respectful to senior management or owners who ever thoughtfully organized the party to attend it. If you did not go, you will be frowned upon by your superiors which does not leave you in a favorable place for future advancement, if any!
Reply:since you're new, its probably benificial for you to go.





you'll meet new people and might make a few connections along the way.





you dont have to stay long, say sometime toward the middle that you have a sick friend you're bringing dinner to.





the fact that you stopped by under such "pressing conditions" will make everyone thing your job is very important to you, and will impress alot of people.





promise. i've done this before :)