A HR expert has revealed the six things not to do at your work's Christmas party, and the dangers of 'overindulging'.
When it comes to your work Christmas do, there's always a few blurred lines.
I mean it's called a party for a reason, but also, how far is too far?
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Well, a HR expert is here to save the day, revealing absolutely everything you shouldn't be doing - even if it feels slightly acceptable.
Melissa Stone, 44, has some real no-go's when it comes to work and festivities, and sticking by them is probably quite a good idea.
Talking to BirminghamLive, she said: "Building a reputation at work as a skilled, trustworthy and competent professional takes time and effort."
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However, she added: "Yet one night at the office Christmas party can undo all that hard work in the space of a few hours."
Melissa noted that despite being called a 'party', the work do should not be treated the same as a 'non-work celebration'.
Avoid overindulging
Perhaps work have put a bit of money behind the bar, or even more generously provided a free bar, it's difficult not to get carried away.
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However, Melissa notes that this is your company's way of saying thank you for all the hard work you do throughout the year, so it would be a shame to take things too far.
She advised: "A few glasses of mulled wine here or there may seem innocent enough, but don't overindulge."
Remember you're still at work
While the environment has changed and everyone looks a little more put-together than they would in the week - they're still the same managers, HR people, admin staff, and everyone else you work with all year round.
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Melissa said that any behaviour not deemed appropriate in the office, should not be tolerated at the Christmas party as well.
She commented: "Inappropriate jokes, gossip, offensive comments, or imposing dancing - can lead to serious consequences.
"Your company likely has policies that state as much, and remind you that you still need to adhere to these internal policies or codes of conduct."
Office romances
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They happen - we all know it.
But even if it works out, the expert advises against actioning any kind of feelings at the Christmas do.
She noted: "It can make others around you uncomfortable.
"If it all goes wrong, it can harm your professional reputation when your otherwise innocent gesture quickly turns into a grievance of unwelcome conduct at the Christmas party."
Don't overshare
When the drinks get flowing, it's so easy to feel like your colleagues are more than that and you might want to start spilling your guts. Whether it's about other colleagues or your personal life, it's best to avoid doing this, for your own sake if no one else's.
Stick to the dress code
Of course, the work Christmas party is a celebration, which calls for slightly dressier attire than usual.
Maybe your company has set a theme like formal black tie, or a bit more casual.
Either way, stick to it.
No one wants to be the talk of the office on Monday, that's for sure!
Don't post without consent
Making sure you get permission from your workplace to post things on social media is vital.
However, if you do slip up, Melissa urges people to take accountability and ownership.
She said: "If you do make a mistake at the Christmas party, take ownership and address it as quickly as you can.
"Apologise where necessary, and ensure you learn from the experience to avoid repeating it at the next event."
And, of course...don't forget to have fun!!
Topics: Christmas, Jobs, Advice, Food and Drink, Alcohol
Mia Williams