HERE ARE 20 DO'S AND DON'TS FOR YOUR HOLIDAY WORK PARTY:

It's time once again for your annual holiday work party.  And while I know you want to have fun, you need to keep in mind that it isn't REALLY a party . . . it's a work-related function, which demands a certain level of professionalism.

--Now that we've got that out of the way, here are 20 do's and don'ts for your holiday work party . . . so you don't embarrass yourself and compromise your future at the company:

#1.)  DO act as if you're being observed.  Because you are. 

#2.)  DON'T talk about work.  Well, okay, you can a little.  But not a lot, and definitely not exclusively. 

#3.)  DO ask about a dress code.  Typically, you'll be shooting for a slightly "fancier" version of your usual professional look. 

#4.)  DON'T spend the whole evening talking to the colleagues you spend all day with. 

#5.)  DO take this chance to get to know your other coworkers . . . and your boss . . . a little better. 

#6.)  DON'T drink too much.  And if photos are being taken, put down your drink first. 

#7.)  DO act like you're happy to be there . . . even if you aren't.  Your company is footing the bill, so try and act grateful. 

#8.)  DON'T flirt.  With anyone.  It's just a bad, bad idea.

#9.)  DO take the opportunity to network with people in other departments, the higher-ups in the company, etc. 

#10.)  DO stay at the party for at least an hour.  Otherwise, you'll give the impression that you didn't really want to be there in the first place. 

#11.)  DON'T be the last one to leave. 

#12.)  DON'T make a pig of yourself at the food table.  You can eat later if you're still hungry. 

#13.)  DO speak and act in ways that make you appear intelligent, agreeable and sane. 

#14.)  DON'T talk politics or religion.  And never tell dirty jokes, or use foul language.

#15.)  DO choose subjects that are cordial and uplifting . . . like hobbies, travel or books. 

#16.)  DON'T pull rank by, say, forcing your subordinates to get your drinks for you.  That's really not cool.

#17.)  DO hold your beverage in your left hand so that your right hand will be free and dry when you shake hands.  (???)

#18.)  DON'T gossip.  It's neither the time nor the place. 

#19.)  DO find out first if guests are invited.  And if they are, only bring someone who will reflect well on you. 

#20.)  DON'T forget to thank the party organizers.

(Yahoo Finance)