Mingle, mingle, and mingle some more. Arrive on time; don’t hang out with the same old office friends, and walk around together in a clique all night. Step out of your comfort zone. Introduce yourself to everyone and have a few ice breakers ready like, “What are your travel plans for the holidays?” Never be the last to leave. There is nothing worse than being that catatonic co-worker propped up on the bar, bloated from too many toddies and pigs-in-a-blanket. Resist the urge to overindulge.

Following are a few more tips on suitable behavior at a holiday office party:

  • Be tasteful, not tacky. The office party is a social extension of your business day. The way we dress is the number one indicator of how we value ourselves and the corporations we represent. If it’s not a Halloween Party, leave these thigh-high disco boots at home!
  • Toasting. The host is always the first to toast. If you are being honored with a toast, don’t raise your glass, drink, or even clap, as that would mean you are cheering for yourself. You can show your gratitude by making a toast to the person that toasted you. Just be brief, 30 seconds or less, as people’s eyes begin to glaze over if you ramble on any longer. Note: This is not just a holiday rule; it should be applied all year long.
  • Don’t overindulge. If you’re a big eater, you may want to eat a little something before you leave home. No one will be impressed if you can down more peel and eat shrimp than everyone else.
  • Keep your dancing PG rated. Be sure not to emulate the dance moves you’ve seen on MTV. Keep it appropriate and do not cross the line.
  • Behaving gladly. Upon arriving, find your host and thank them for arranging the party. You also want to say a brief thank you when you are leaving. If you really want to shine and warm a heart, send a handwritten thank you note, mentioning the food, location, and your gratitude for a festive and fun evening. And just like that, you have arrived, survived and successfully navigated your holiday office party!

The dos and don’ts of holiday parties: MyFoxTAMPABAY.com