3 ways to avoid embarrassing yourself at the office holiday party

Holiday office parties are a chance to unwind with your colleagues, but they can also get you into trouble. Strike the right balance of professionalism and fun at this year's party.

Read your office party invitation closely to determine if bringing a guest is proper etiquette.

• A work-day party is likely intended for employees only, whereas a partner or spouse would likely be invited to an evening or weekend shindig. However, it's important to confirm with your office party organizers or a close colleague about whether or not you can bring a guest.
• If guests are invited, choose wisely. If you're married or in a long-term relationship, you know who you're bringing to the party. If you're dating or single, don't invite a guest who has the potential to embarrass you.
• If your guest is more interested in taking advantage of the open bar than he or she is chatting with your co-workers about non-controversial subjects, you might be better off attending the party solo.

Let the formality of the event dictate what you should wear to an office holiday party.

• The location of the event and time of day can clue you in to how formal or informal of a party it will be.
• Naturally, your attire should match the formality of the event.
• Whether you're headed to a casual afternoon party or a formal evening affair, stick to conservative fashion.
• While you can be a bit more fun than business casual for your party, you don't want to be too bold.
• Strike the right balance between festive and conservative.

Partying with your colleagues is sometimes a bit awkward. However, an office holiday party is an opportunity to stop talking shop and start getting to know the folks you work with every day.

• Avoid talking about work and especially stressful topics. Stick to safe topics: your family, interests, sports, vacations and holiday plans. Keep religion and politics out of the conversation.
• Stay on your best behaviour at the office party. Your festive spirit and an open bar can be a dangerous combination that could lead to some embarrassment after the party.
• Relax and have a drink, hit the dance floor with your date and enjoy the party while remaining mature and professional.

Balancing professionalism and fun is key at an office holiday party so be sure to loosen up and get into the holiday spirit without showing your wild side to colleagues and superiors.