First and foremost, it’s important to know what the tone of the office party will be. Chat with your coworkers to double check. Usually, office parties lean toward business casual.  Don’t go to the office party expecting it to be like a night at the club. However, each company has its own culture. 

Try not to think of the office party as an obligation. Such an attitude will only steal the fun! Think of it as an opportunity to get to know your colleagues better.

Ladies, leave your stilettos and short, tight dresses at home.  What’s the fanciest thing you would wear to the office on a work day without feeling embarrassed or overdressed? Wear that, and make it a little festive with holiday-themed colors, patterns or jewelry.

Be polite and arrive within 10 or 15 minutes of the party’s start time, if not precisely on time.  Do not show up with the mindset that you will “make an appearance” and then skedaddle after quickly helping yourself to drinks and snacks. Try to stay for at least an hour. If the party has a 

specific end time, prepare to leave about half an hour beforehand.

Get ready to listen and to engage in small talk. Stay positive in your chit-chat. Avoid stuffing your face with food. Eat beforehand so that you’re not tempted. Snack moderately. Even if they do serve alcohol, try not to drink. This is particularly true if you know you have a hard 

time stopping once you get started. You don’t want to be the punch line of the party.

When it comes down to it, you’ve handled more stressful work activities than this.  Have fun and stay classy, and the office party will be a breeze.