Christmas party season is upon us and while we're safe to relax in the comfort of our own homes - we're usually on slightly higher alert at the work Christmas party... at least until the tequila shots come out, that is.
There are some unspoken rules we all like to follow in order to not have to hang our heads in shame next time we're in the office, but ultimately, it's like a game of Russian roulette.
Luckily for us, there's a plethora of advice on the internet - including one savvy woman who made a video on the exact right time to back door it and leave.
Advert
According to the influencer, you should never stay past 11.00pm.
She said: "I don't know who needs to hear this, but do not - I repeat do not - stay to the end of your work Christmas party.
"Nothing good happens from staying past 11pm at a work Christmas party.
"These aren't your family, they're not your friends."
Advert
Over on Reddit, one person shared a work Christmas party horror story that resulted in an awkward chat with HR.
They wrote: "My manager and HR Director talked with me because I danced too actively in Christmas Party."
They explained: "Ok, So I am quite new in a new company (entered in September).
Advert
"There was a Christmas Dinner and Party and I had normal drinks during dinner, eventually drunk some more drinks during the party with the music from the DJ. I like to dance a lot, doing crazy movements, and I was doing that in the party. I felt comfortable doing so.
"A lot of people were [applauding] and finding it funny, and different people said I was the King of the Party. I danced with some colleagues, even girls, but nothing offensive (they were the ones saying I was the King of the Party)."
Ultimately, the dancing ended in the employee being told people felt uncomfortable, and asked to apologise.
Advert
They then asked: "What do you think about the impact of this episode in my reputation and how would you act from this moment?"
One person responded: "When you're at a company holiday party, you are at work. You are obviously new to this concept. Don't forget it again."
Another said: "Lesson learned. Don't drink at work events. You will save yourself a lot of problems.And being King of the Party with friends is not a reason to do that in a professional environment. I would be the most professional person at the workplace until I live down that embarrassment."
Advert
A third added: "Being called the “King of the Party” at a work event is not something to be proud of.
"If you have to go to a work social event stick to 1 drink. I avoid all work social events because I feel the negatives outweigh any positives."
Note to self, no dancing at the work Christmas do.