How to survive the office Christmas party

It's the work day you look forward to all year, and also kind of dread. This year, don't let your office Christmas party descend into embarrassment and humiliation - just follow our handy survival tips and be the belle of the ball!

Don't over-indulge

It's the cardinal rule of office parties: don't get drunk. Yes, it's Christmas and you want to let your hair down, and yes, sometimes there's even an open bar, but you should still try to avoid going overboard. You can keep your head by pacing yourself and drinking water between your alcoholic drinks. Remember, you want to create happy memories, not a drunken blur!

Food is another great way to lessen the dreaded hangover. Try having a big lunch before the party to help your body absorb the alcohol more slowly, and take advantage of the free buffet at the party if there is one.

Don't confess your crush

Office crushes are complicated and when everybody is filled with the excitement and joy of Christmas it can be easy to let your guard down and make your feelings known. But beware, the Christmas party is not the place to reveal your undying love: it's too public and you'll be making your crush the unwitting subject of months of office gossip.

Just remember, if they're not interested you'll just embarrass yourself, and if they are interested then letting them know after a few drinks in a room full of your colleagues will probably not go down well!

Do mingle

The office party is a great opportunity to speak to people you don't normally spend time with. Always wanted to meet that guy on the floor below you? Think the people on the other side of the office seem like fun? Make a beeline for those in the office you don't really know and strike up a conversation. You never know, you might make some new friends!

If you do approach someone new, don't just talk about work: you don't want to come across as someone who lives and breathes the office. Try to find some new common ground like favourite sports, hobbies or countries you've both visited.

Don't get into an argument

Now is not the time to bring up complaints about colleagues or other office gripes. You may want to let your guard down and have a good old moan with your work friends, but remember that your managers and the people you're complaining about are also there. What's more, confronting somebody who has upset you at work should be done professionally, within working hours: don't try to start an argument at the Christmas party.

Remember, you will still have to work with these people the next day, so rein in your complaining and just focus on having a good time.

Do have fun

Staying professional at the office party doesn't mean you can't have fun! If you would like to drink or dance or joke around, go right ahead. Just make sure you're not having fun at anybody else's expense and remember: everything in moderation.

We hope you have a fantastic office party that doesn't leave you regretting anything you did the night before!

Cover image source: HalfPoint