Your office party is right around the corner, but you’re not quite sure how to act.

Office parties can be problematic because they combine the business atmosphere of work as well as the social aspect of a party.

No matter how festive the occasion, it's still about business. Don't fall off the fast track to success or risk damaging your professional reputation in one night of inadvertent blunders.

Finding a happy medium isn’t always easy -- but if you follow these rules of office party etiquette, you’ll be on your best behavior.

1. Watch Your Alcohol Intake

The office party can be an especially tricky minefield since drinks are often free and the point of the party is to celebrate. It will be tempting to indulge – but don’t. Alcohol can make opinions and emotions flow freely (sometimes too freely), and you don’t want to end up saying or doing something you’ll regret.
2. Eat Before You Arrive

Office parties typically involve appetizers, but sometimes they don’t make it to all the attendees. Get some food in your system before you get to the party so the first drink doesn’t go straight to your head.
3. Dress Appropriately

You may not have to wear a suit and tie, but that doesn’t mean you can wear your ripped jeans and sneakers or dress like you’re at the club trolling for dates. For the office party, pair dress pants or dark denim jeans with a nice button-down shirt and casual dress shoes.
4. Mingle, Don’t Brownnose

Use the office party as an opportunity to get to know your peers. Strike up conversations with people you don’t know, finding common interests such as golf and other hobbies. Thank your boss, your peers and don’t forget the person/people who organized the holiday party, too. The office party is a great place to show your strengths as a person.
5. Mind Your Manners

This may seem obvious, but sometimes manners go right out the window after business hours – especially when there’s alcohol involved. Don’t chew with your mouth open, no swearing, and don’t forget to say “please,” “thank you” and “excuse me.”
6. Be On Time

Being fashionably late isn’t a good rule for the office party. Be on time – absolutely no more than a few minutes late. It’s especially important if a meal is served – be there by the time the first course is served and don’t leave any earlier than after dessert.
7. Leave Scrooge At Home

If you’re not crazy about being at the office party, keep your thoughts and facial expressions to yourself, i.e., don’t walk around with a scowl on your face. Check your negativity at the door, smile and socialize.