Here it is holiday time again, and while Ms. Abby and Manners takes care of our social etiquette I’d like to share some practical tips for business holiday parties.

Here are some DO’S….
 Attend the Event: It’s an unspoken expectation that showing up may not be mandatory or can it be required, but attending isn’t really optional. That is if you want to be working there next year.
 If you RSVP – by all means ATTEND: Many business functions are paid on the basis of the number who attend, and that is calculated by the number of RSVP’s.
 Mingle, Mix, and Move: Talk to different people and learn something new. Don’t stick with your usual water cooler pals.
 Pay Attention to Start and End Times on the Invitation: This is there for a reason, and you don’t want to overstay your welcome.
 Remember that Any Business Party is Really a Business Event: Although it might be outside the standard office meeting and be accompanied with food and beverage, the same rules of conduct apply.