It’s time to party — but don’t go too far with celebrations!

TIS the season to be jolly — but crossing the line and getting too merry at your Christmas party is not to be recommended.

The “traditional” works party where festivities actually take place in the office is pretty much a thing of the past.

Think about it — no manager or IT techie wants a lot of drunk people spilling the fizzy plonk all over the keyboards, for a start.

These days the action is more likely to take place at a local function suite or hotel.

And if you think the overall workplace rules and standards don’t apply, you’re wrong.

Obviously, if you work for a small team — such as a hairdresser or a small garage — you’re likely to be mates as well as colleagues, and the rules are going to be looser.

But if it’s a bigger company or public body then you can bet there’s a policy in place about what is acceptable and what’s not.

If you step out of line, it could come back and bite you — so don’t drink too much and keep the head.

Don’t think for a moment that a blind eye will be turned because it’s the Christmas party!

If you’re nasty, aggressive or “inappropriate” — which covers a multitude of sins — then you could find yourself having to explain your conduct next week with a none-too-pleased boss.

There’s no reason why you can’t have fun at your office bash — that’s what it’s all about, after all.

But remember that you’re among colleagues and there’s nothing worse than that shameful walk into work on a Monday morning after a night out that you would rather forget.

So here are some top tips to help you survive the festive works party:

Don’t start drinking on an empty stomach — it’ll shorten your night considerably because you’ll be three sheets to the wind in no time.

Think about alternating alcoholic drinks with water or soft drinks.

Not only will the hangover be much kinder but you might just find that you really don’t need to be drunk to enjoy your night out.

Try to dress appropriately — this is a special occasion so dress up by all means, but avoid anything too wacky or revealing.

Don’t treat office parties like singles bars.

Remember, you’ll be seeing these people again on Monday.