How to survive the office Christmas party

14/10/2008

Anyone who's clocked up a few years in the workplace is guaranteed to have an embarrassing office Christmas party anecdote up their sleeve, whether it's a 'moment under the mistletoe' with a colleague, or a case of being too forthcoming with their true opinions about the boss.

To avoid festive humiliation this year, take the following tips into consideration:

1. First of all, keep reminding yourself that you are at a business function, not a nightclub. If you make a prat of yourself you will face weeks if not months of teasing from your colleagues.

2. Be conservative in your choice of outfit. Strapless or backless dresses are best kept for other occasions.

3. Keep the conversation social. This is a two-fold tip: first, it prevents you from boring everyone by 'talking shop'; second, it means you won't accidentally reveal confidential company information to the wrong person.

4. Avoid the mistletoe! Even though lots of couples meet at work, the office Christmas party is not the place to make a move on the colleague you fancy.

5. If you're doing Secret Santa, play it safe - don't buy offensive or tasteless gifts for your colleagues.

6. Arrive near the start of the evening - people will be less inebriated!