Getting your Christians glam on: one water, one wine ... Pic: Supplied Source: Supplied

No one wants to be that guy who sleeps under his desk and greets everyone the next morning in a shirt that looks very familiar, very crushed and very alcohol-soaked (yes this actually did happen). So we spoke to Anna Musson, the author of Etiquette Secrets and founder of The Good Manners Company, to give us her guide to how to behave at the office Christmas party after that first vodka shot or espresso martini is downed.

‘Don’t be the last to leave’ says etiquette expert, Anna Musson. Pic: News Corp Source: Supplied

Here goes!

• Go easy on the drinks: “I know it’s free food and drink and it’s almost un-Australian to not make the most of it, but before you start two hands drinking, consider this: Is your boss going? Are they still your boss or are they leaving? If they’re not leaving, this is still a ‘work’ function for you.

• Don’t hook up with the cute photocopier rep. I’m not saying you are forbidden from dating, but if you are keen on someone and need Dutch courage to approach them, it’s probably not a good idea, so take it offsite. This is especially a bad idea if the other person is in a relationship or is your boss. These things can easily end with one of you losing your job.

• Don’t dress like the prostitute in a ‘P’ party. This is not the opportunity to look sexy. Look fabulous, please, but draw attention to yourself for THAT reason, not because you can’t sit down in your tiny, tiny skirt.

• Keep your shoes on. Even for dancing. Pack band aids and blister packs but under no circumstances should your shoes be removed.

• It can be tempting to go up to the CEO and introduce yourself. If you work for a big company, ask for an introduction so they don’t feel ambushed. If you work for a smaller company where you know the boss is approachable, pick your moment and don’t stay too long or tell them everything that’s wrong with their company.

Don’t forget to have FUN; even if there are just three of you. Pic: Thinkstock Source: Supplied

• Don’t enter the room with a big group. If you are not confident, enter with one other person

• Don’t be on your phone as you arrive or answer your phone during the event

• Don’t hover over the waiters every time they appear or wait by the kitchen door for food; it will come, honestly!

• Don’t be the last to leave.

• Don’t start the karaoke.

• Don’t dance on tables or order shots

• Don’t take photos of others and post them to social media — don’t do that for yourself either! (Editor’s note: at least make the pics G-rated ...)

Anna Musson is the author of Etiquette Secrets and founder of The Good Manners Company.

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