I've already written a negative parody on appropriate (INappropriate) behavior at the Christmas party subject. Therefore, although it won't be easy, I'll try to be serious with my suggestions on what you actually should not do.

Don't ridicule those who are planning the party. If you can't join in on the efforts, at least keep your negative opinions to yourself. Try to remember that many people have deeply-felt religious and nostalgic feelings about Christmas, and you should show respect for them throughout all phases of the party.

If you have a tendency to sneak some holiday drinking in during the day of the party, which is usually a dismissal offense, keep it reduced to a minimum. Some employees may want to get a head start on the wassailing, but if you're smart, you won't get involved. Also, about drinking, if the office party is during working hours, and especially at the end of the working day, and you must drive home, don't drink at all. If you insist on doing any drinking, make sure you get a non-drinking associate to take you home.

Are you usually the cooperative, friendly employee who gets along with everyone. Drinking can change your personality, and you may say and/or do something you'll regret the next day, or worse, several days later while you're standing in the unemployment line. Even if you don't drink, and the setting at the party is rank free ... the big boss talks palsy-walsy with the lowest clerk ... don't use the occasion to get all your resentment out and feel it is necessary to tell the executives what you think of them. You don't have to bow and scrape, but keep the conversation cool and respectful. If not, the dirty looks you'll get in future weeks could lead to less take-home pay or no-take-home pay.

Shall we talk about office party sex? Most of the old jokes about the Christmas party are about the two who, while married to others, do it behind the file cabinets. Of course, it happens, usually fueled by booze and lowered inhibitions, but is no joke when the illicit lovers are caught. Each could face painful repercussions, including loss of jobs and family turmoil. If the urge gets overwhelming, and your brains happen to be much lower in your bodies, at least set up a rendezvous for later at the local No-Tell Motel, and hope no one finds out about it.

In conclusion, enjoy every moment of the company Christmas party, but, for Pete's sake, behave yourself!

Learn more about this author, Ted Sherman.
Click here to send author comments or questions.

---

Add your voice

Know something about What not to do at the company Christmas party?
We want to hear your view. Write now!