by Rachel Wood

Created on: November 04, 2008   Last Updated: November 15, 2008

Some people love them and others hate them, but nearly all of us will be invited to a work Christmas party. We've all heard the stories of people drinking too much and photocopying various body parts or kissing their boss under the mistletoe. And while some of the adventures from the night before will just result in a bit of embarrassment, there are things which could get you into serious trouble. Below are tips to help the night go smoothly.

The first and most obvious is don't drink too much. Getting plastered can result in anything from falling over to passing out. Know your limits! If you must drink alternate between alcoholic and soft beverages and make sure you have organised how you are going to get home before the party starts in case you are in no fit state to do it at the end. Of course don't drink on an empty stomach. If there is food at the party have some, if not eat before you leave the house.

This is more for the ladies but it's important to dress appropriately. Very short skirts and low cut tops might be OK if you are out clubbing with your friends but they are not suitable for a work party. As a general rule don't dress in an outfit that you wouldn't feel comfortable wearing at work. It may seem unfair but dressing provocatively is seen as unprofessional and could get you a reputation you don't want.

It's nice to make an effort and talk to people that you don't usually see much of however watch what you are saying and try to avoid bad language! You never know what's going to offend people and you don't want a complaint made against you for saying something controversial. Also don't talk "shop". The Christmas party is a chance to relax and get away from everything you have to deal with for forty hours a week.

We can't choose who we work with and a lot of us have at least one workmate who we don't like. The party is not the best time to bring up any problems you may have with a co worker. If there is somebody who isn't doing their fair share or behaving unprofessionally at work sort it out through the proper channels instead of getting into a massive argument with them when you have had too much to drink. Bite your tongue or you could end up in a lot of trouble the next day. Also avoid flirting or making a move on anybody. A man who comes onto a female colleague too strongly during the party could end up facing a complaint of sexual harassment afterwards.

Work parties are a little bit different to a night out with your mates. There's no reason you can't enjoy yourself and be sensible at the same time. If something seems like a good idea just ask yourself "will I regret this tomorrow?" and don't do it!

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