Take a moment to answer this equation:

Music+ endless wine and open bar+ dance floor+ holidays=…

If you guessed “fun time”  you’re correct, but if you add coworkers and boss to the equation, it can get pretty messy. It’s fun to go out on weekends after a hard week at work and tear up the dance floor with your friends. It’s not fun, however to get crazy at your holiday party and jeopardize your career. Here’s some tips to make sure you have a great time ringing in the new year with your company… while keeping your job: 

Don’t hook up with coworkers. Sure, the dark handsome guy in sales has a striking resemblance to Johnny Depp (even more so after a couple glasses of wine), but it’s still not worth the repercussions. First, it will make for an awkward Monday, when you have to see them every second at the office. Also, when word gets to the water cooler (which it will), coworkers may lose respect for you and see you in a different light. 

Do eat: I know this year’s pay cut may force you to wear your dress from last year’s party that fits a little more snug thanks to the secretary’s candy bowl. However, drinking on an empty stomach never leads to a good night (or memory) no matter how tight your dress is. Make sure to eat before the event, so you can focus on conversing with the people at your table, rather than your plate. And dig in (with manners of course) to your meal. After all, it’s free and probably a lot better than the mac n cheese you normally make. 

Don’t over-drink! No one wants to be “that person” at the party that’s doing the funky chicken on the dance floor and trying to make-out with everyone in sight. You want to be remembered at the party, but for the great way you carried yourself, not for drinking too much alcohol and slurring. Have lots of water with dinner, and don’t mix! Pick a drink of choice and stick with it for the entire night. (and try you avoid the shots)

Do network: Let’s be honest, some bosses, managers, and coworkers can be intimidating. In a relaxed environment away from work, it’s an excellent opportunity to talk with them. Most companies do random seating, so you sit with people you may not see everyday. Sure, it can be tempting to stick with the people you already know, but use this opportunity to branch out and meet new people. You don’t have to stick with boring office talk either- you are outside of the office so let them know that side of you. 

Don’t dress inappropriately: Of course you want to look good, and dress differently than you do at work. However the little black dress you wore in Vegas is probably not the best choice. Make sure to keep it classy, and wear something you’d deem appropriate enough for a family party. 

Do choose your date wisely: Your spouse, loved one, or good friend is a reflection of you as well. Bring someone that is friendly, well behaved, and can be on their own while you socialize with coworkers. 

Do research who’s who ahead of time: If you work in a big company, it can be hard to keep everyone straight. Knowing names, and which positions people hold will make conversation flow easier and impress them with your knowledge.  (And you don’t want to make a joke about your boss’s moves on the dance floor to his partner.) 

Do have a great time! Holiday parties are a blast. It’s a time to celebrate the accomplishments that have been made over the past year, recognize valuable employees, and meet close family members of coworkers. And this year, if you are not part of the 20% of companies that have been forced to axe the holiday party because of the economy, that’s even more of a reason to celebrate. Just watch your alcohol intake and save the craziness for work-free events.