A.While this time of the year can be stressful, by encouraging your employees to follow these simple rules you can make the holiday party a success for all:

• Do attend. Don’t pass up the invitation, as others may perceive you not part of the team.
• Do mingle. You don’t want to just chat with one or two people at the party. You should make an effort to get to know other co-workers and your manager.
• Do act professionally at all times. Don’t use the office party as an opportunity to gossip or vent your frustrations.
• Do confirm the dress code for the party. Don’t dress too flashy or wear clothes that are too revealing. When in doubt, err on the more conservative side – after all, it’s still a business function.
• Do engage in casual conversation. Stick to neutral topics and don’t talk about politics or religion. Also, don’t spend all evening talking business.
• Do moderate your food and alcohol consumption.
• Do bring a guest if it is acceptable. Spouses or significant others are not always on the guest list for office parties.
• Don’t forget to thank the person responsible for the planning and coordinating of the party. And do consider sending a thank-you note to top management for hosting the party.