With the holidays fast approaching, the party season is well underway. Whether it’s an office party or an intimate gathering of friends and loved ones, here are a few tips to make sure you and your reputation come out of the party season unscathed.

Know the dress code.

If an invitation to an event comes without a clear indication of dress code, be sure to find out. If it is work related, ask the person coordinating the event. Otherwise, ask your host or hostess to clarify. Keep in mind that it is always better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed.

Find out if guests or children are invited.

Once again, if the invitation is unclear, simply ask. If guests (or dates) are allowed, find out whether there are any limitations as to who the guest can be. Sometimes the invitation only extends to a spouse, partner or significant other. If it’s an office party, keep in mind that it’s a bad idea to invite the competition.

Be on time.

While it’s one thing to be fashionable late, it’s another thing altogether to be just plain old late. Arrival time really depends on the event. If you are attending a cocktail party, then there is some flexibility. If the event includes a sit down dinner, know what time dinner will be served and arrive prior to that time.

A half hour late seems to be the maximum. That said, you will need to use common sense and your own judgment regarding each particular situation. Whatever you do though, just don’t arrive early!

To give or not to give.

Many don’t like to arrive at a party empty handed – myself included. The trick is to know what to give, when and how to give it and whether or not it is appropriate. Office parties are usually easier to decipher unless the party is at the boss’s house. Typically staff members pool resources to purchase a gift for their boss. However, if the boss is hosting a party in his or her home, it may be appropriate to bring along a host/hostess gift. Make sure to see if other employees are doing the same as you wouldn’t want to upstage others.

If you are attending a private function, you will have to use your own judgment. Put out some feelers to others who are attending. If you are still unsure, bring something along and leave it in the car or in a bag and you can decide at the door.

Know your limit.

Holiday parties are often festive occasions; however try not to overindulge (especially at a work related function). If you are partaking in a little Holiday Cheer, know how many drinks you can handle and plan accordingly. Try pacing yourself by alternating between alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks throughout the evening – some drinks do have a way of sneaking up on you.

Don’t overstay your welcome.

Know when it’s time to go home. Unless you are with close friends or family members (and sometimes even then), try not to linger too long. It’s usually best to leave when things are starting to wind down. You’ll know you’ve overstayed your welcome when your host or the cleaning staff start sweeping around you.

Enjoy yourself.

The holiday season is a great time to relax, celebrate and connect with coworkers, friends and family. It’s a time to reflect on what is truly important and to be grateful for the joys in our lives.

Lastly and most importantly, here is the one tip that has saved numerous individuals from morning-after humiliation: Remain grounded with your feet firmly planted on the floor. In other words – stay off the tables.

Happy Holidays!