The launch of the holiday season means one thing: company holiday party. This can be a great time to get some face time with the boss, get to know your co-workers a little better and just have a nice evening that doesn’t involve conversations about spreadsheets, reports, budgets and new marketing plans. There is one thing though you definitely don’t want to do: act poorly.

Here are some helpful etiquette tips to make your company party more fun, less fiasco.

• What to wear? Keep one word in mind: appropriate. If the event is immediately after the work, your business attire is probably just fine. If the party is later in the evening or on the weekend, ask the host if you aren’t sure or confer with a couple of coworkers. Make sure that what you wear reflects well on you professionally. This is not the time to show up in your most revealing outfit.
• What to eat? By all means, sample a few items from the buffet (that’s what it’s for, after all). Be sure to select things you can eat neatly, with one hand, while standing up. Stay away from salty or greasy foods that make you want to drink more. Choose foods high in starch and protein that will help slow the absorption of alcohol into your bloodstream. Watch what you drink. Keep reminding yourself that this is a business event first and a party second. If you drink Vodka Tonics, at the holiday party, have them without the vodka. No one knows but you. Keep your glass in your left hand so when you shake hands with someone, your hand isn’t wet or cold.
• When can I leave? When you have spoken to all or most of the bosses, coworkers, and new people you planned to, gracefully leave. As you leave, thank your host for the enjoyable evening.
• Can I have fun? Yes! But not too much fun. Remember, this event is about business and you want to keep your professionalism out front. The holiday party is not the time to let down your hair or throw caution to the wind. What you say and do on Saturday night will live on for a long time in the minds of your associates. If your behavior is inappropriate, your career may be shorter than everyone else’s memory. If you conduct yourself with charm and savvy, your rise up the ladder of success could pick up speed.
• Can I tweet from the party? No. No. No. That’s right: don’t text, e-mail, Tweet or post to Facebook until you’ve thought about it the next morning. There’s nothing worse than making fun of your boss’ wife on Facebook and then remembering the next day your boss is a Facebook friend.

Have a funny office holiday party story to share? We’d love to hear it!