When I started out, I used to take on temp administrative jobs to help make ends meet. Once I worked for a bank that seemed very proper on the outside. But every year, the prim bankers dropped their conservative personas for one weekend while they attended the office holiday party.

They gathered at a hotel near the beach, sans spouses and significant others, partied all night, then stayed in rooms booked for them by their employer. The tales of debauchery arising from this annual weekend were legendary. It’s hard for me to imagine how some of those people could look each other in the eye over a conference table the rest of the year. When they began sharing their stories and telling me I just had to be around for the festivities … well, let’s say I was glad my assignment ended in November.

Given the increasing litigiousness of our society, few companies today would risk the potential lawsuits that could come out of a hotel weekend sans spouses and partners. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t stay on your guard when attending seasonal parties with your bosses and colleagues. Here are a few suggestions for party-proofing your job:

• Dress appropriately. If you’re a woman and hope to be taken seriously in business, an office party is not the time to unleash your inner sexpot. In most workplaces, what happens at the party does not stay at the party. Deciding to ditch your professional image in favor of Christina Aguilera doing Lady Marmalade will come back to haunt you.

• Bring a friend. Most invitations include an offer to bring your significant other. If you don’t have one, then bring a trusted friend who can help make sure you act in your own best interest. Don’t, however, show up with a group of friends, your kids, or any other unexpected surprises.

• Drink and eat in moderation. It should go without saying that if alcohol is served, you need to limit yourself to two glasses for the entire evening. And do not mix your drinks. If you’re having wine, beer, or eggnog, stick to that choice. Make sure your spouse or guest follows the same rule. But you should also demonstrate restraint when passing by the buffet table. Being a glutton can attract as much negative attention as being a lush. Remember: This is a work-related function and you want to make the best possible impression at all times.

• Watch your mouth. It’s a social occasion, which means it’s not an opportune time for discussing promotions, pay raises, or plum assignments. It’s a work-related function, so it’s definitely not the time for talking about religion or politics, for telling tasteless jokes, or for flirting with your boss or colleagues. So what can you talk about? Anything else. Limit yourself to inoffensive small talk. Holiday parties are wonderful opportunities for networking, so try to get to know your coworkers a little better or to develop relationships with people from other departments. Try to discover their interests and look for common ground. The relationships you develop today may help better your prospects in the coming year.