The Do's and Don'ts of Office Holiday Parties

Office Christmas/Holiday parties can be fun. A party sounds like, well, a PARTY. But when it's your office party, it's really more of a work-associated event, and so you still need to have your "work" face on. Chances are, the bosses that be will be keeping tabs on all the guests/employees! You do not want the fun to turn into disaster. Here is a list of reminders for office party do's and don'ts.

Do go to the office holiday party, even if you don't really want to. It could be taken as an insult if you do not attend, and management does not like being offended! Usually quite a bit of money and time is invested, so be cool, and show up.

Do be cordial and sociable. Mingle and be polite. Always remember that this is a professional affair, not your neighbor's annual Christmas Bash! Be in control and don't let temptation lure you into being a party animal.

Do bring the boss a nice and simple gift if you are going to bring a present at all. . Gag gifts could be awkward and not go over too well.

Do dress conservatively, at least to a degree. You are not going to the local nightclub. Your bosses that see you at the party are the same ones that will see you at work the next day. Show the higher ups that you have good taste.

Do show self-control Flirting and touching are no-nos! You do not want to be accused of inappropriate behavior or be the center of discussion at the old water cooler the next day.

Don't get into conversations that are derogatory in any manner. Steer clear of complaining about your work or co-workers. Try to leave any discussion that involves bitterness or anger concerning work, management or co-workers

Do mingle with associates and upper management that you may normally not see or talk with. Networking and relationship building can be great benefits of the office holiday party.

Don't talk about yourself all night. And don't talk about others. Gossiping about co-workers will come back to haunt you.

Do bring a guest who will be comfortable at the office party, and will follow your example in keeping to office party etiquette. This may not be the party to bring your party animal buddy to!

Do stick to moderation in drinking. One too many drinks can have you feeling no pain that night, but will surely cause you pain in the workdays ahead! Drinking too much will certainly increase chances for silly and embarrassing behavior and conversations. Avoid over-drinking. Nurse the same drink as long as you can, or simply do not drink at all. Trust me, this is a big one. If you want to drink, try and wait until you leave the party, then toast yourself on behaving so well when you get home.

Do not drink and drive. Have a designated driver or call a cab.