As part of our Summer Series, we take a look at how best to survive the office Christmas party.

OPINION: We’ve all heard the advice about proper etiquette for the annual office Christmas party.

How much should you drink? Should you network with executives or avoid work-related discussions entirely? Do you think it's even worth attending?

While holiday cheer often includes many drinks, navigating this exciting terrain wisely is essential. Photo/pinotandpicasso.nz

Some staff members look forward to the end-of-year Christmas party, while others dread it, seeing it as a social free-for-all when the alcohol starts to flow.

Many employees aim to show up, but only for a couple of hours - as a part of the team - not wanting to be labelled as anti-social.

You may have heard stories about the workplace Christmas parties that didn’t end as well as they began.

In recent years, social media and political correctness have shifted the vibe. Now, the typical, badly behaved Christmas party is on the decline.

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Even casual interactions, like a staff member kissing a colleague, could lead to a call from HR, causing many workers to hesitate about any romantic gestures.

However, we want the company holiday party to be enjoyable, not a horror story.

Unlike the usual work-related social events, the holiday office party often has more alcohol, creating opportunities for colleagues at different levels to connect.

Many people use this occasion to network with their bosses while nervously holding on to their drinks and sporting their favourite ugly Christmas jumpers.

Whether you’re a newcomer or a seasoned manager, you’re not alone in feeling anxious about the event.

Understanding the expected behaviour at this year-end gathering can help ease those nerves.

Now is far too late to diet, and if you plan to drink alcohol, you best eat something. Photo/komikeg.com

Here are some tips the experts believe may help.

What to wear

At Christmas parties, nothing is too over-the-top. While costumes related to Jesus are a no-go, dressing up as Santa or an elf is acceptable.

If you plan on dancing, wear comfortable shoes. Choose clothing you can easily change out of. You don’t want to struggle with a jumpsuit in the restroom while gossipy Karen is banging on the door.

This is also a chance for you to show your colleagues that you can have fun outside of work.

Watch the booze

For many companies, the alcohol flows freely during holiday parties, which can be enjoyable but also risky. Too much to drink has led to many party horror stories.

Once you reach a comfortable level of jolly goodness with your co-workers, try going between alcoholic beverages and water to keep yourself in check.

Colleagues become like family, sharing the joy of the holidays. Photo/supplied

Avoid shots! What starts as a fun idea may lead to you being dragged to unwelcome after-parties.

Take care not to face serious workplace consequences the next day. No one wants the "hangover" of an HR investigation.

Handling small talk

Engage with your colleagues without diving into work-related discussions.

Sharing personal interests and values can help you feel more connected and ease the pressure of finding meaningful conversation topics during the holiday party.

Instead of asking about their work achievements, inquire about their hobbies, favourite meals they’ve cooked or their pets.

This can foster a relaxed atmosphere and help everyone get to know each other better.

If all else fails, consider mingling with the junior staff; they often have the latest office gossip.

No one wants to be the person caught in an awkward moment at the office party, like someone misjudging the bar scene or dancing as if nobody is watching when, in reality, all eyes are on them.

Some companies have chosen to host alcohol-free Christmas parties, which help reduce the risks. This trend is growing in New Zealand and Australia.

Whatever the outcome of your 2024 workplace Xmas party, remember it's the season to be jolly. Happy Christmas!