If you’ve got an office party on your calendar this week, I’ve got some dos and don’ts for that event..

The invitation might say “party” or “celebrate” – but if the other guests are colleagues and clients you may want to keep it low key...

Anna Post, co-author of "The 18th Edition of Emily Post's Etiquette,” has a few office party rules of etiquette:


• Don’t skip the party: Even if you think your bosses or coworkers are jerks – YOU don’t need to be one. You really should go and make the best of it for one night.

• Dress appropriately. If you’re unsure, it’s better to be a little over-dressed than under-dressed. Try for something festive, yet professional. Save the crazy expressive outfit for your friend’s party.

• Don’t over consume – anything. That goes for alcohol, food and conversation. Be aware of your boundaries and use this as an opportunity to enjoy and shine among your colleagues instead of monopolizing the event or overindulging.

• Plan your intros. If you are bringing a date or spouse to the holiday party, be sure you are properly introducing him or her to your bosses and colleagues.

• Put the phone away. Looking distracted or like you can’t stop networking at a party is a real turn-off to the other guests. Take advantage of some fun face-to-face time and turn the phone off for a few hours.

• Say thank you. After you thank the host, it’s worth your while to seek out the party planner and thank him or her. That person often gets overlooked.

• Skip the gift for the boss. It’s inappropriate to give higher-ups a gift unless it’s a group thing.