November 27, 2001 -- Fort Lauderdale, Fla. -- Social Strategist Deborah Ritch cautions business professionals to avoid these five tactless social indiscretions and career crushing mistakes:

1. Don't pass out in the punch! Being labeled as the company lush can be a hard reputation to shake. Too much to drink can result in a loss of respect from your colleagues or maybe even that big promotion. Set your drink limit before you leave home. Throughout the evening nibble hors d'oeuvres and alternate between alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
2. Don't wear your rock star leather pants or lacy bedroom bustier. Dress inappropriately and you could become the Monday morning joke. Avoid anything too short, too tight or too sheer. Looking professional still counts.
3. Don't sit on the boss' lap or make romantic advances toward co-workers! Be careful not to jeopardize a good working relationship in one foolish moment. A holiday party is not an opportunity to blur professional boundaries.
4. Don't ask company VPs how many zeros are on their paychecks. As a rule of thumb, it is best to avoid discussions about religion, income, political preferences and sex.
5. Don't bring the homemade fruitcake! Unless planned, do not bring gifts or homemade dishes to the office party. Adhere to the company gift policy, and only bring in that fruitcake on the official potluck day.

"The same rules of business behavior apply during the holidays," comments RitchImage President Deborah Ritch. "Do not wrongly assume that inappropriate behavior among co-workers will be forgotten. Once colleagues and supervisors have seen you at your worst, it will be hard to regain their respect and influence them later with your ideas. It is also equally important for spouses, dates and significant others to exhibit the highest standard of social grace as well."

About Deborah Ritch

Deborah Ritch, president of RitchImage, is a social strategist that offers advice for modern day etiquette dilemmas. In addition to one-on-one consultations, Ms. Ritch also hosts etiquette seminars. Clients have included Broad and Cassel Attorneys At Law, Community Foundation of Broward and the Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention and Visitors Bureau. Ms. Ritch holds an MBA from Nova Southeastern University and is a member of the Association of Image Consultants International. For more information visit www.mannersandimage.com.