Beautifully decorated Christmas trees like this one add cheer to an otherwise drab room in this festive season. Michelle Lee, event designer and wedding specialist, put her special touches to The Gleaner's editorial department tree. She may be contacted at 381-0678. - Norman Grindley/Deputy Chief Photographer

It is the season to be jolly, but for many, being jolly seems to be synonymous with loud, boorish and downright uncouth behaviour - especially at office parties. Somehow these bring out the worse in staff whose true colours shine more brightly than the Christmas decorations.

Picture the shy information technology genius who after a few drinks, begins to 'feel up' a sexy co-worker. Or, imagine how you feel when the boss' secretary gets so drunk, she vomits all over his lap! And, what about the guy from the mail room who just grabbed his female supervisor and proceeded to 'rub-a-dub' her on the dance floor without even asking for a dance? Do you see the exit lines getting longer in the New Year?

And, don't even mention the food; many workers think since it's 'free', why not just take a few bottles of wine home or start erecting Mount Everest on their plates! Just because it's a buffet, does not mean pull up a chair! These and other embarrassing moments can be avoided if you read on. There is life after Christmas parties, so be on your best behaviour.

1. What to wear. Men - Check dress code of the event. If in doubt, better to be over dressed, rather than under. Wear dark trousers, pants or slacks, and a smart shirt. Remember now to iron. Always ensure your shirt has a collar. Make sure you're comfortable, there's a good chance you'll eat and drink a lot, and you don't want to split your pants.

Ladies - Unless you're in the porn industry, too much skin is inappropriate at company Christmas parties. Smart casual is usually the best bet for a function of this sort. Make sure you're wearing comfortable shoes, as there's a good chance the night will wear on for some time, you'll be on your feet a lot. Ensure you're going to be warm enough, you don't want your lips turning blue and your nipples behaving as headlights.

2. Conversation topics. We realise that work may be a common interest point with others at the Christmas party, but this is your chance to really get to know one another. Work is better left at work. Let your hair down, and show what an interesting and attentive person you are by becoming acquainted with your colleagues on a social level. Bosses, supervisors and managers especially like to avoid the work topic, and it won't go down well with them to bring it up. They're trying to escape it too.

Politics, sex, toilet humour, religion, women, races ... all those subjects which happen to include a barrage of bad jokes and can be touchy subjects should be avoided. Remember that outside of work, people still have feelings and opinions, and even though you might be watching your alcohol intake, everyone else might not be. Inappropriately approached topics on these subjects might result in heated debates and personality mismatches. Avoid these at all cost.

3. How much to eat and drink. It is free - By all means, take advantage of the ever-pouring drinks and the plentiful free food ... but, remember your own limitations. A good rule of thumb with alcohol is to do one alcoholic drink and one water/soft drink/juice. Pacing yourself is important, don't be greedy and remember that the food and drink are for everyone. Whatever you do, don't drive home if you've had too much. We recommend you keep yourself happy, but not quite tipsy.

Get a taxi: Company parties are usually held in easily accessible locations, and are therefore close to taxi resources.

Get a room: Sometimes, a little bit of alcohol and good food while sitting beside your office heart-throb will get your pulses racing. If you feel things might get heated, get some accommodation. Don't start making out in front of the party, or even in a dark corner or in the company parking lot ... especially if office relationships are against your company policy.

4. Meet and mingle. If you see the IT manager sitting on his own in a dark corner, help him out and go speak to him. The poor guy has problems fitting in. That goes for anyone who might be a little shy, or even new to the company. Some firms encourage people to bring their partners, and they often feel strange not knowing anyone. Help them feel comfortable. You may forge a valuable alliance. Make sure you've got a stack of business cards in your top pocket, or in your handbag.

Kisses, hugs: Not at the Christmas party. Remember that sexual harassment laws still apply at work functions, and anyway this is a cheesy time to tell someone you've got the hots for them. Be jovial, expressive, but not sleazy - it will come back to haunt you.

5. Two left feet. You 'might' have to dance at the Christmas party! Get some lessons, from friends, dance teachers, jig up and down ... but don't be anti-dancing, as your co-workers will see you as being most unfriendly. If you must decline, be assertive. Most people will understand. If someone doesn't want to dance, realise that you asking them in front of a large crowd of colleagues is likely to make their head get hot, their palms sweat and their knees tremble. Be discreet.

6. Complaints. Remember, this is supposed to be a fun occasion. Don't whine about the food, service, venue, company, drinks, etc. Pretend you're enjoying yourself. Pretend. Make-believe. Children can do it. Tap your ruby slippers together and dream out the words, "There's no place like home", don't just don't say them.

Presents: If your company traditionally gives presents at the Christmas party, be tasteful. Don't exploit people's sensitivities, and certainly don't buy anything that might offend.

For more information, Google 'party etiquette'.