And it is a fabulous feeling because we all want to connect. We want to have a good laugh and a good story to tell on Monday. We also use the office party as an opportunity to get that pay rise or promotion, to get friendly with the boss without appearing too sycophantic. Yes, for some of us there is a method to our madness. A friend of mine had this amazing skill of subtly negotiating with her drunken boss her next pay rise.
Some people do use the office party as pre-pay review.
For some the office party is a chance for us to connect with the people who wouldn't otherwise give us the time of day within normal working hours. It is also a great time to clear up any misunderstandings and make friends over a drink. The office party gives an insight to the baser culture of the office. Obviously if you are endangering your life and the lives of others then that is a line that you should steer well clear of. If you you're yelling out your company's trade secrets in a crowded bar, then you may be in breach of the confidentiality clause in your contract.