Office parties can strike fear into hearts of even the most level-headed of people. Horror stories linger well into Easter and the big debate over what to wear and how to behave can be confusing.

Although jokes about photocopying certain parts of your anatomy and visiting the stationery cupboard with a hapless bloke from finance are old hat, they do carry a worthwhile warning: people will judge you on how you behave.

While there's no need to be paranoid and not enjoy yourself, just remember a few key pointers.

Find out about the dress code beforehand and always go for smart over seductive. Check out page 16 for some party dress ideas.

Be careful how much you drink, it's good to relax but nobody wants to be helping you to stand up after too many lagers.

Although it's a good opportunity to network, don't talk shop all night or you'll be remembered as the office bore.

Try and keep conversation positive and avoid venting about colleagues. If you are going to be vocal about someone else's shortcomings, at least check they're not behind you first.

With strict harassment laws, be wary of any jokes involving mistletoe; it might be a harmless joke to you but you don't want to end up losing your job over a prank.

The atmosphere will depend on the company you work for, whether you know all your colleagues or not. At big company parties, it's an ideal time to talk to new people and if you already know everybody you can relax and catch up on any news from your personal lives.

Have fun, but don't go overboard. Or you might wake up clutching your P45 and find you've lost more than your dignity.