Employees should have fun at the office party, but must remember that such events are social activities meant to reward employees and raise morale, says a Ball State University career expert.

The office party is not the time to end a job with the company or ruin a career with behavior that can be deemed inappropriate or illegal, said Tara King, assistant director of Ball State's Career Center.

"Though a holiday staff party or gathering with colleagues may be disguised as purely social, you don't want to get too comfortable or too casual at the event," she said. "Maintaining your professional image and presence will still be important. After all, you still have to work with the same people the following Monday."    

Rules for corporate get-togethers are different from holiday gatherings for family and friends. While the goal of the business party is to network and celebrate a successful year, the focus of the event is still business. 

"If you are uncertain, check with your boss or the host about the exact purpose of the event," King said.

Basic rules of holiday party etiquette are: 

• Avoid excessive alcohol consumption
• Mingle with co-workers and guests – office parties are a great time to get to know colleagues and clients
• Keep your hands to yourself, don't flirt and avoid any other sexual innuendo
• Dress appropriately

King suggests that employees adopt a host's mentality. Each person should be responsible for introducing him- or herself to guests, introducing guests to each other and ensuring a comfortable atmosphere.

While practicing these skills might make an employee the life of the party, it also could enhance a person's career. Honed social skills may be noticed by supervisors.

"When you act as a host at an office party or professional networking event, you show others that you're a go-getter, someone who is comfortable with groups of people, enjoys networking and understands the values of making professional connections," King said. "You should always attend the holiday party because you never know what might happen. You can use the activities to make a positive name for yourself while also making contacts that will be beneficial to you in the future."

(Note to Editors: For more information, contact King at (765) 285-2430 or tking@bsu.edu.)