How to Behave at a Work Holiday Party

By: Doniree Walker

Break Studios Contributing Writer

It's always a good idea to keep some rules in mind with regards to how to behave at a work holiday party. Sure, being the guy closing down the bar belting out Michael Jackson's "Bad" may sound like a good idea at the time, but really? That's likely not what you want your colleagues discussing on Monday morning. You want to keep how to behave at a work holiday party in mind, especially around the people who are responsible for your promotions and raises. So, how can you make sure you know how to behave at a work holiday party and you don't cross any lines?

Here are Top 5 Tips on How to Behave at a Work Holiday Party:

Don't get drunk. This one is pretty obvious, but it's also the easiest to mess up. Match each drink with a glass (or two!) of water, make sure to eat before or during the party, and choose drinks that are good for sipping: darker beers, martinis, wine, and scotches. Avoid shots and anything that you would be tempted to consume too quickly.
Make it a priority to network and talk to people in other departments. Get out of your comfort zone and talk other colleagues that you don't interact with every day. Not only is this a smart career decision anyway, but if you're more focused on getting to know new people, you'll be less likely to get too comfortable and drink too much.
Don't gossip. It's not just the chicks that talk, and nothing can hurt your reputation or credibility faster than being the guy that can't be trusted. Keep conversation to safer topics such as company success, introductions to your spouse, partners, date, etc., and how your local sports teams are faring this season.
Bring a gift. This is assuming your party is hosted at a coworker's house, rather than an event center of any kind. If that's the case, bring a bottle of wine to show your hosts that you appreciate their hospitality.
Be gracious. Thank your hosts, your bosses, the bartenders. If you make it a point to be remembered as the guy at the party who tipped his bartenders well, who thanked the servers, and who made positive conversation with his colleagues and bosses, you'll be so concerned with leaving a positive impression that misbehaving won't even be an issue.