Keller @ Large: Office Holiday Party Do's And Dont's

BOSTON (CBS) - Perhaps you have already been to a work-related party, but high season for those festive affairs really begins this week.

And that means it's time for our annual reminder of office holiday party do's and don'ts.

DO attend the office party.

The experts point out that while attendance may be optional, it's bad form to miss it unles you have a legitimate excuse. Plus, if you have a hectic workplace, this could be your one chance all year to get to know your bosses and co-workers a little better, and to let them get to know you.

However, DON'T use this occasion to demonstrate how much fun you are after a few beers, or to act on that office crush you've been harboring.

This isn't the right place or time for that.

Come to think of it, there will never be a good place or time for it.

DO try to converse with a wide range of people.

This is your chance to reach out and at least briefly connect with co-workers you otherwise don't get a chance to talk to. This could be a huge benefit to your work going forward, and who knows? You might make a new work friend or two.

But DON'T talk about politics.

Do I really need to explain why?

Another DON'T – DON'T forget your good manners.

Here in the newsroom, in the heat of the action, the language can sometimes get a little…brusque. But at the party, all sorts of folks not used to that culture will be within earshot, and they may not appreciate it.

And a final DO – DO wish everyone a Merry Christmas.

After all, it's the spirit of the season that really counts.

Listen to Jon's commentary: