7 SIMPLE RULES FOR SURVIVING THE OFFICE PARTY

You already have your eye on the prize of some leave but there's end-of-year stress and an office party to attend. 

You're probably excited about the function but before you crack open a bottle of champers here are a few tips to not waking up the morning after with the "Oh, please don't tell me I actually did that" dread. Let's be honest – we've all heard a few stories. It happens but here's how to ensure you can face your colleagues and still have a job the next day.

DON'T BE THE OFFICE BORE
It's time to have fun. It's not the time to talk about office politics or next month's targets or moan about a certain department that's really unhelpful. Events like these are an ideal opportunity to get to know your boss and co-workers on a more personal level. Who knows – it could improve relationships with colleagues in the future. Keep the conversation light and casual. Compliment others but be genuine. If you're not good at small talk, try practising a few conversation starters before you go.

WEAR SUITABLE ATTIRE
If there's theme, try to get into the spirit. If dressing up isn't your thing, at least make a small effort by wearing a hat or mask that fits the occasion. If there's no theme, go for the middle ground. Don't turn up in flip-flops and board shorts or overdress in an outfit you'd normally take out for weddings. Most importantly you don't want anyone discussing your racy wardrobe malfunction the next morning in the office kitchen. If in doubt ask your co-workers what they'll be wearing.

DONT' DRINK TOO MUCH
There may be an open bar and it’s very tempting to drink to try get you through the evening but know your limits. Alcohol lowers your inhibitions and alters your judgment. Do let loose a little bit but don’t be pressurised into drinking games or keeping up with the guy in the accounts department if you know your tolerance levels are low. Pace yourself. Choose low-alcohol options or dilute your drinks – soda in wine makes a refreshing spritzer, and lemonade in beer creates a shandy. Remember to have something to eat before leaving home and visit the snacks table regularly. Make sure you have a safe ride home or order one.

AVOID TMI SYNDROMEThere's always one colleague telling anyone who will listen to something way too personal at an office party. It's great to share but when it's because of too much free wine, it could backfire or make working relationships awkward in the future. Before sharing anything about yourself, make sure you would be comfortable with this becoming public knowledge at the office. If not, don't mention it. If a co-worker overshares, be gently firm about the fact that the issue makes you uncomfortable, mention how you value him or her despite not wanting to talk about the topic and redirect the conversation to something more within your limits. 

IT'S NOT THE TIME TO FINALLY MAKE YOUR MOVE

Office parties are a great way to network and may be one of the few times a year you get to chat to your boss, but this isn’t the time to pitch him your new marketing strategy or to ask for a promotion. It also isn’t happy hour, so don’t confess your feelings to your office crush. Flirting or being provocative could make your co-workers lose respect for you on a professional level.

KEEP YOUR PHONE IN YOUR POCKET
Not everyone looks forward to an office party. Even if you don’t want to be there, put away your phone and focus on the event. Unless you’re the social media manager there’s no need to keep sharing on Instagram or Facebook, either. If you must check your phone, slip away occasionally to do so.

DO HAVE FUN
Remember there’s a reason it’s called an office party. It’s still an extension of the office. Have a wonderful time – you’ve earned it. Just be responsible and use it as a chance to enhance your relationships with your colleagues in a positive manner.