'Tis the season to be savvy.

• Position: Office Parties - Business opportunities created at company social gatherings

Are you planning on attending your office holiday fete? If not, you may be passing on a career opportunity. Tracey Turner, executive director of The Creative Group, Menlo Park, Calif., a specialized staffing service placing creative and communications professionals on a project basis, advises employees to take advantage of seasonal festivities. "Missing one company activity probably won't impede an employee's career prospects, but being a perpetual no-show can cause a firm to question that person's enthusiasm and loyalty. Attending the office party can help staff members raise their visibility companywide and build camaraderie with coworkers.

"The key to making a positive impression at a corporate holiday function is to think of it as a business opportunity," adds Turner. "Be there to network and get better acquainted with colleagues--not to consume cocktails or share gossip."

Turner offers the following tips for making a good impression at your seasonal soiree:

Reach out. Make a point to meet at Least two people outside of your usual circle. Those from other departments can be valuable contacts.

Have a story to tell. Prepare one or two conversation starters, such as current news events, movies you have seen, or books you have read. Keep discussions light, avoiding sensitive topics like politics or religion. Excessive "shop talk" also is not a good idea.

Wear festive...