Áine Cain

'Tis the season — for your office's annual holiday party.

Here's hoping your bash is merry and bright. But, before you put on your Santa hat and go to town, just remember these kinds of wintery events are inherently risky. Mixing booze, coworkers, and the stress of the holiday season can be truly volatile.

So, take steps to avoid humiliating yourself at this year's festivities. The night could be fun ... or it could mutate into an evening of drunken disaster.

Here are 17 tips to make sure your office holiday party is a definitive success.

Strelka Institute for Media, Architecture and Design/Flickr

To show that you're committed to the company, make sure you show up for at least 30 minutes. Always assume company gatherings are "must attend" events.

"If you never show up at company events, you lose brownie points," Karen Wickre, author of the recently published " <a id="c89dd7a5-ee89-3a80-aefe-0df20bcdc3bd" href="https://www.amazon.com/Taking-Work-Out-Networking-Connections/dp/1501199277?tag=bisafetynet2-20"> Taking the Work Out of Networking: An Introvert's Guide to Making Connections That Count </a> ," <a id="2424967b-9950-3d06-a6b1-3ca32736eacc" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/how-to-survive-office-holiday-party-tips-conversation-starters-2018-11?utm_source=intl&amp;utm_medium=ingest"> previously told </a> Business Insider.

Read more: <a id="f7a535d0-8a6f-367f-a384-aeb1c86d93be" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/how-to-survive-office-holiday-party-tips-conversation-starters-2018-11?utm_source=intl&amp;utm_medium=ingest"> Even if you're dreading your office holiday party, you still have to go. Here's your survival guide </a>

<h1> But dont show up perfectly on time </h1>

Even if the party takes place at the office, Drew Magary at GQ advises you go home after work, then come back.

If you can't do that, just continue working until you see that 75% of your colleagues have turned on their holiday mode. <a id="99a1812f-8cdb-39ee-a097-ebf9cc754b6d" href="http://www.gq.com/how-to/rest-of-your-life/201301/office-party-survival-guide"> Magary wrote </a> : "You know who shows up on time? That one creepy lady who works in human resources who you never talk to. Now it's just you two, standing there while the DJ spins 'Gangnam Style.'"

<h1> Ask about the dress code ahead of time </h1>

Strelka Institute for Media, Architecture and Design Follow/Flickr

You need to find out what the dress code is and stick to it, career coach Barbara Pachter <a id="0fa1c4da-c5e9-31bc-a5e1-f2c523b0a295" href="http://www.businessinsider.com/office-holiday-party-etiquette-tips-2012-12?utm_source=intl&amp;utm_medium=ingest#ask-about-the-dress-code--and-stick-to-it-1"> previously told Business Insider </a> .

Pachter, the author of " <a id="7f96f2f0-0329-3663-a8f7-ecccb1387a13" href="http://www.amazon.com/The-Essentials-Business-Etiquette-Success/dp/0071811265"> The Essentials of Business Etiquette </a> ," said you don't want people talking about what you wore the day or night after the party. Whatever you wear, remember that it's still a business event.

<h1> Use the party as an opportunity to meet people you dont already know </h1>

Especially in a large company, you'll likely see people at the party that you don't normally have a chance to interact with. Maybe they work on a different floor from you, or in a different team.

Workplace expert Lynn Taylor told Business Insider that you might consider creating a goal to speak to at least three new people, or another metric that's easily reached but ensures you step out of your comfort zone.

"Ask open-ended questions as you chat with people, so the conversation flows, and isn’t a ping-pong match," Taylor said.

<h1> Feel free to approach senior leadership, too </h1>

Gleb Leonov/Strelka institute/Attribution License/Flickr

The holiday party is a great chance to say hello to senior leadership who you might not typically interact with.

Wickre said to keep the interaction brief and cheery.

Try: "I just want to thank you for a great year, and let you know that I love working here. I'm so excited about next year and what you're doing."

Flickr/George Alexander Ishida Newman

Yes, you're going for the free canapés, but you should still eat at least a little bit before the party begins.

Being too busy to mingle because you're chowing down dozens of mini-sandwiches isn't really the best recipe for inter-office networking. And, if you plan to drink, you might get more intoxicated than you intended if you're attending on an empty stomach.

<h1> Dont explicitly conduct business </h1>

In other words, don't ask about that new position opening up or if you're eligible for a raise. It's tacky.

Since it's an office event, it's obvious that some business-related conversations will come up, but don't come to the party with an agenda, Helene Wasserman, an attorney for the international labor and employment law firm Littler, <a id="87116116-d513-3ffc-a18c-1d339a49362a" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/how-to-act-at-a-company-party-2011-12?utm_source=intl&amp;utm_medium=ingest"> previously told </a> Business Insider.

On the flip side of things, avoid gossiping about your coworkers, too.

<h1> And dont talk politics, either </h1>

Grigory Galantny/Strelka Institute/Flickr

Politics, religion, race relations, and so on shouldn't be discussed at the work party.

"It might be the 'low hanging fruit' given all the headlines lately, but try to steer clear of getting on a soapbox, unless you feel you’re in safe territory – or it can get awkward fast," Taylor said.

<h1> Be sensitive to different religious affiliations </h1>

Your coworkers might not be celebrating the same holiday you do. Play it safe by simply wishing them an inclusive "Happy holidays!"

"Seem like a good way to loosen up?" Taylor said. "Don't do it. It's a bad way to make a first impression."

You need to prepare yourself ahead of time by setting guidelines, whether that's one or two drinks max.

Taylor said indulging in more than a few drinks might be a good way to combat any shyness or nervousness you might have about the party, but it's better to be a little introverted than to make a total fool of yourself.

<h1> Dont get romantic with another employee </h1>

Avoid public displays of affection, even if you're seeing someone in the office.

"If you are dating someone at the company and still keeping it a secret, this is not the time to start dancing romantically, because then everyone will know," <a id="52c937b1-23d2-38f6-a793-3e7ca3ba26f1" href="http://www.businessinsider.com/office-holiday-party-etiquette-tips-2012-12?utm_source=intl&amp;utm_medium=ingest#keep-your-dating-life-on-the-down-low-9"> Pachter said </a> .

It's also not the time to try to make a move on a coworker you've been crushing on, or to start trying to woo an employee you're meeting for the first time.

"Don't embarrass somebody by going up to them and asking them to dance unless you're sure they will say yes," Pachter said.

Obviously, you don't want to loosen up to the point where you're plastered, <a id="4e6c2d8c-38d7-3061-a1dc-2edbbcb73fa9" href="http://www.businessinsider.com/never-say-this-to-your-office-nemesis-2016-7?utm_source=intl&amp;utm_medium=ingest"> yelling at your office nemesis </a> , or generally embarrassing yourself in front of people. However, that doesn't mean you shouldn't try to relax a bit.

"Pretend you're at a friend's party," Taylor said. "While this is a time for professionalism, it's supposed to be fun, not torture. If you can remind yourself of that, it should take some pressure off."

<h1> Dont be the last one to leave the party </h1>

It might be a festive event, but don't make a name for yourself as the company's party animal. Also, try to stop drinking an hour before you leave, said Wasserman.

If you become too intoxicated, find a cab immediately.

Some of your coworkers may want to go out after the party ends, and if you've been controlling your alcohol intake, feel free to go and mingle with your colleagues.

However, a few drinks later, <a id="0d935423-e25e-37e9-a66a-25f2062bdca1" href="http://www.businessinsider.com/so-you-got-blacked-out-drunk-with-your-coworkers--and-things-got-weird-2012-9?utm_source=intl&amp;utm_medium=ingest"> if someone suggests a third venue, don't go </a> .

Why? By the time you make it to that third venue, the vibe has changed. It's no longer the "happy hour" crowd. It's now the "let's rage" crowd.

At this moment — as a working adult — you need to make a choice. The moment your colleagues see you in a compromising position, they will likely view you differently. Is that a risk you want to take?

<h1> Make sure you say goodbye to people </h1>

If you don't say your goodbyes, it will make it look like you snuck out for some reason. You can also make a point of going up to the people who organized the party and thanking them for doing such a great job.

It's a huge no-no to post negative opinions about your company or its holiday party on Facebook or Twitter, Pachter said. You'll also want to avoid posting photos or descriptions of coworkers who have had too much to drink.

In general, Pachter said it's best to keep anything you write about the party positive and to ask people before posting photos of them on social media.

"Someone's unbecoming behavior shouldn't be discussed or shown on Facebook," she said.

This is even more crucial if you get intoxicated at the party. Everyone will know why you didn't show up to work the next day — including your boss.

<a id="90795306-c608-33fc-a1b2-657fba38678c" href="http://gawker.com/5865195/10-tips-to-survive-your-office-holiday-party"> Brian Moylan at Gawker wrote </a> : "You have to go to work the next day. If you don't, everyone will know why, and they will sit around and talk about your bad behavior the night before twice as much. If you're there, they have to sneak around and do it behind your back, which will cut down on the office gossip by at least 50%. You're already in trouble, don't make it worse."

This post is an updated version of a story originally written by Vivian Giang and Aaron Taube.

17 tips for surviving your office holiday party

It's an aggravating scenario for any <a id="5e609c55-1028-3231-acf5-55e0bb83ab86" href="https://markets.businessinsider.com/stocks/cost-stock?utm_source=intl&amp;utm_medium=ingest"> Costco </a> member — arriving at the warehouse only to find that you've forgotten your membership card.

Because Costco is a members-only warehouse club, members are expected to show their cards upfront. Typically, Costco locations have an employee or two situated at the store's entrance, to ensure that only members gain access to the warehouse.

But what happens when someone shows up without a card — or even refuses to show their card?

"Members would be asked to go to the membership department where we can supply them a new membership card or temporary pass," a Costco spokesperson told Business Insider in a statement. "There are no known issues with members refusing this, as it is part of the Terms and Conditions when members sign up."

Business Insider asked seven Costco employees about how they're instructed to handle members — or people who claim to be members — who show up sans card.

A Costco employee from Minnesota said that it's often "tough," because "people typically flash their cards at us" without "giving us a chance to see the picture on the back."

"They come through that door so fast and furious that, if you had to look at the back of each card, you'd have a major traffic jam," a Nebraska-based employee told Business Insider. "Picture anywhere from 300 to 400 members coming through the entrance every half hour, plus their family members or 'guests.' There just isn't a way to police this. You just be cordial and keep them moving."

And an employee from Illinois told Business Insider that the most important verification comes later.

"At the door, the members just flash the card from a distance," the employee said. "Verification isn't needed until the member gets to the register."

But what happens if a visitor says they've forgotten their card — or even outright refuses to show their membership card — at the door?

According to the employees, that might depend on the warehouse.

Read more: <a id="81328536-df4f-3567-af60-bbd568fe91d8" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/costco-wine-blog-buying-tips-2018-12?utm_source=intl&amp;utm_medium=ingest"> 13 tips for getting the best deals on wine at Costco </a>

"When a member refuses to show their membership at the door, they're asked to leave," a Pennsylvania-based employee told Business Insider. "Same thing if they show a card not belonging to them."

That's not enough to stop some shoppers, though.

"When I work the door, nobody enters without showing their card," a Washington-based employee told Business Insider. "Many have tried, but nobody does. I have heard that a few female employees have been buffaloed by some male members who have refused to show a card. In those cases a manager is called to intervene and the situation is quietly resolved."

But, according to employees, other Costco locations are less stringent about allowing access to the warehouse.

"We pretty much let them through," an employee from Kentucky told Business Insider. "We are not going to physically restrain someone."

In some cases, employees are actively discouraged from intervening.

"One of my coworkers got written up because a member complained about being asked to show their membership," the Costco employee from Nebraska said.

If the individual flashes a card that clearly doesn't belong to them, the employee from Kentucky said that employees will ask them "if the cardholder is with them."

"If they answer yes, we ask them to wait for the cardholder," the employee said. "If they ignore the question or keep walking into the store, most likely the cashier will notice at check-out and call a supervisor over to explain to the person that only the member can use the card as membership is non-transferable."

So if the policy apparently varies across warehouses, why does Costco even bother asking people to show their membership cards at the door?

Employees say the card policy serves to prevent problems from arising down the road, namely at check-out.

"Basically it's our first line of defense — and technically our only line of defense," a Costco employee from Canada told Business Insider. "It prevents non-members from filling a whole buggy with items, only to get to the cash register and find out they need a membership. We've had this happen so many times."

And if the frustrated shopper ends up storming out, that leaves employees to return the "$400 worth of frozen and freshly cooked items" to where they belong in the warehouse, accdording to the employee from Canada.

The employee from Illinois said that, while the warehouse will often refuse to sell to non-members, management sometimes caves if the customer throws enough of a fit.

"The supervisor will allow them to pay cash or debit," the employee said. "That comes with a firm warning that the cards are non-transferable, but no one really listens to rules anyways. There are lots of cashiers that don't enforce those rules — that's why the non-members feel they can get away with it so many times."

But if you are a legitimate Costco member who shows up without your card, you do have one method of recourse.

"If the member doesn't have their card, they just need to swing by the membership desk with ID and we print them either a temporary card or a brand new card," the employee from Minnesota told Business Insider. "There's no limit on how many times you can get a new card or a temporary."

"I don't think there is a specific protocol, you try to handle each situation as it comes," an employee from Nebraska said. "Most members are pretty upfront if they forgot their card. They will go right to the member service desk."

NOW WATCH: <a id="08a42a23-7a80-3d5c-a090-f8270deffeda" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/sneaky-ways-costco-buy-more-tricks-2018-5?utm_source=intl&amp;utm_medium=ingest"> Sneaky ways Costco gets you to buy more </a>

<ul><li> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/kirkland-brand-items-costco-shouldnt-buy-2018-12?utm_source=intl&amp;utm_medium=ingest">5 times you shouldn't buy the Kirkland brand at Costco</a> </li><li> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/costco-wine-blog-buying-tips-2018-12?utm_source=intl&amp;utm_medium=ingest">13 tips for getting the best deals on wine at Costco</a> </li><li> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/costco-walmart-target-returns-stories-2018-10?utm_source=intl&amp;utm_medium=ingest">From entire lawn sets to used toilets, these are the most ridiculous returns employees from Costco, Walmart, and Target say they've ever gotten</a> </li></ul>

SEE ALSO: Costco employees share 31 things they'd love to tell shoppers but can't

DON'T MISS: From entire lawn sets to used toilets, these are the most ridiculous returns employees from Costco, Walmart, and Target say they've ever gotten

SEE ALSO: Costco sells millions of pumpkin pies every year — and the recipe has apparently been the same since 1987

Costco shop shoppers members employee worker

What happens when you show up at Costco without a membership card, according to employees (COST)

<a href="https://markets.businessinsider.com/stocks/wmt-stock?utm_source=intl&amp;utm_medium=ingest" id="a0069cd9-4207-3fce-a042-cc80c3cea13f"> Walmart </a> CEO Doug McMillon is sounding the alarm on the US-China <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/category/trade-war?utm_source=intl&amp;utm_medium=ingest" id="b9f822bd-30ba-3f29-ac3b-9614ce66b512"> trade war </a> once more.

"We worry about next spring, next summer, next fall what customers will have to pay if tariffs do escalate," McMillon told <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2018/12/06/walmart-ceo--doug-mcmillon-worries-about-prices-if-trade-war-escalates.html?__source=twitter%7Cmain" id="551d671b-c649-3351-a6de-3bc8f085de5a"> CNBC </a> on Thursday.

McMillon's expressed concerns about a worsening trade war come amid the 90-day ceasefire US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/china-us-trade-war-trump-xi-trade-trade-deal-2018-12?utm_source=intl&amp;utm_medium=ingest" id="a13113f5-f76a-3501-a383-72a83cc9c9e4"> agreed </a> to at the recent G20 summit. But despite this pause, <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/trump-xi-jinping-trade-war-tariff-delay-deal-2018-12?utm_source=intl&amp;utm_medium=ingest" id="bb03ba42-48cd-3fb6-a5e5-210430811009"> analysts </a> are predicting that the two sides will fail to come to an agreement in 90 days.

McMillon said Trump's policy on tariffs has created "uncertainty as it relates to pricing."

Read more: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/china-us-trade-war-trump-xi-trade-trade-deal-2018-12?utm_source=intl&amp;utm_medium=ingest" id="eb37d38d-4d54-3dbe-a4c6-1dd1a173fb03"> For the first time, China confirmed major details about the Trump-Xi trade deal. It could only intensify the scramble over the next 90 days. </a>

"It causes us to start thinking about where we want to source goods from," McMillon said. According to the CEO, China is Walmart's second-largest source of goods, after the US.

McMillon told CNBC that, while Walmart has been able to keep prices down for the time being, certain "categories" of products are especially in danger of seeing a price hike due to the trade war. Business Insider's Bob Bryan previously <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/walmart-products-hit-hardest-by-trump-china-trade-war-2018-9?utm_source=intl&amp;utm_medium=ingest" id="8b600cf7-d67a-3242-a509-56f0c86621f1"> reported </a> that items like gas grills, video cables, bicycles, futons, mattresses, and Christmas lights are all especially at risk.

And this isn't the first time that Walmart has weighed in on Trump's trade policy. Back in September, the retailer published a <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/trump-tariff-china-trade-war-walmart-letter-2018-9?utm_source=intl&amp;utm_medium=ingest" id="2e457df3-3c5d-36aa-a37f-e387e41a3e2e"> letter </a> saying that it was "very concerned" about how the trade war would possibly "raise prices on consumers and tax American business and manufacturers."

NOW WATCH: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/walmart-prime-shipping-amazon-perk-delivery-retail-online-shopping-2017-2?utm_source=intl&amp;utm_medium=ingest" id="0d7db5c2-9856-3f90-a0b8-39f5bd87ee1f"> Walmart undercut Amazon's most valuable perk </a>

<ul><li> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/lululemon-tests-amazon-prime-style-membership-program-2018-12?utm_source=intl&amp;utm_medium=ingest">Lululemon is testing an Amazon Prime-style membership as athleisure competition heats up</a> </li><li> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/walmart-acquiring-art-dot-com-2018-12?utm_source=intl&amp;utm_medium=ingest">Walmart is acquiring the world's largest online seller of art</a> </li><li> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/woman-sues-hilton-shower-filming-claims-2018-12?utm_source=intl&amp;utm_medium=ingest">A woman is suing Hilton for $100 million, accusing a person of filming her in the shower and posting the video to pornographic sites</a> </li></ul>

SEE ALSO: Walmart is acquiring the world's largest online seller of art

Walmart CEO reveals why Trump's trade war with China still has him worried over rising prices (WMT)

<a id="5e609c55-1028-3231-acf5-55e0bb83ab86" href="https://markets.businessinsider.com/stocks/cost-stock?utm_source=intl&amp;utm_medium=ingest"> Costco </a> wines have a <a id="8265a0c0-0d53-3f97-ab4c-038d7684e2ab" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/costco-wine-blog-buying-tips-2018-12?utm_source=intl&amp;utm_medium=ingest#make-friends-with-the-clubs-wine-advisor-8"> reputation </a> for being high-quality and high-value.

But that doesn't mean that there aren't a few subtle pitfalls that come with the territory. Play your cards wrong, and you could end up with a bulk-sized case of wine that you can't stomach.

Read more : <a id="81328536-df4f-3567-af60-bbd568fe91d8" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/costco-wine-blog-buying-tips-2018-12?utm_source=intl&amp;utm_medium=ingest"> 13 tips for getting the best deals on wine at Costco </a>

Fortunately, there are certain strategies you can employ to avoid such a fate. Business Insider spoke to <a id="2691c6cb-ded8-3866-aeae-ce0e71b95465" href="https://costcowineblog.com/"> Costco Wine Blog </a> founder and editor Andrew Cullen and contributing reviewer Erin Reyes to get their thoughts on all there is to know about Costco wine.

Here are their top tips for mistakes to avoid in the wine section at Costco:

<h1> Dont expect unlimited options. </h1>

Cullen and Reyes agree that Costco has a great selection of vino, with especially good coverage of California and other domestic US wines.

But you shouldn't think of the warehouse chain as your one-stop shop for the exact, specific wine that's on your mind.

"Costco is almost like a curated wine collection for you," Cullen told Business Insider. "You're not going to go there and find whatever bottle you may be looking for. If you're looking for a Chardonnay, you're going to have to buy whatever Chardonnay is there."

Reyes recommended calling ahead if you've got a particular wine in mind, to make sure it's in stock.

<h1> Dont be intimidated by the more expensive options. </h1>

Costco is famous for its value-oriented approach. And Reyes and Cullen both say that the chain boasts quality wines for good prices.

But Cullen said that you shouldn't be afraid to occasionally splurge on a more expensive wine.

"I think it's a great place to buy more expensive wine," he said. "The average price savings that you're getting — it's magnified as you spend more."

He gave the example of the 2013 vintage of the Joseph Phelps Insignia. Cullen said the wine could go for around $225 at most retailers, but Costco members could pick it up for around $199. Cullen happened to get an especially killer deal on the wine.

"I was able to get that for $179, which is a pretty good deal," he said.

You might feel a bit silly tearing through the wine bins like you're searching for your dropped keys. And Cullen said that he feels that people think he's "weird" when he starts digging around in the wine section of the warehouse.

But he doesn't let that stop him, and for good reason. Cullen said that different vintages are often mixed up in the bins together. If you forgo rooting around, you risk missing out on the best vintage.

That's because different vintages tend to be thrown in the bins together.

"Don't just grab the first bottle," Reyes told Business Insider. She said that while vintage might not matter as much for lower-end wines, for high-ticket bottles it's far more crucial.

Cullen also recommended checking beneath the wooden racks, where you might find a forgotten bottle of an otherwise sold-out wine.

Either way, it's a mistake to leave the warehouse without doing a thorough investigation of the available bottles.

<h1> Dont assume a certain type of wine will be around forever ... </h1>

Even beloved Costco products might be here today and gone tomorrow. The chain's wine section is no different.

"Sometimes, there are unique wines that are hard to find that will just show up and then they're gone," Reyes said. "And then they never come back again, so that's kind of intriguing."

"If you see it and you really want it, you'd better buy it right away, because it might not be there when you come back," Cullen said. "That is the Costco way, and that definitely applies to wine."

<h1> ... but dont write off any products, either. </h1>

Cullen and Reyes both check back at their local Costcos relatively frequently, to check out the new products. Sometimes, they're surprised to see an old favorite return.

"Wine will disappear and then they'll randomly come back three months later," Cullen said. "You're like, 'Whoa, look what's back.' People love that."

<h1> Dont buy a whole case before sampling the wine. </h1>

Costco is famous for selling its products in bulk. That's why Reyes recommends purchasing a bottle of a new wine before springing for an entire case.

Because while it might be tempting to purchase a case-load of wine when it's on rebate or when you've enjoyed previous vintages, you never know.

"If you do like it, come back before the rebate expires," she said. "And if you like the new vintage the same, go ahead and buy your case."

<h1> Dont be afraid to try new things. </h1>

Cullen said that when he's shopping for wine at Costco, he tries to avoid constantly grabbing the same things over and over again.

"Don't be afraid to try something new," Cullen said. "Don't just say, 'I love Chardonnay, I'm only going to stick with Chardonnay.' You might be missing out."

Costco members actually have a few resources at their disposal when it comes to purchasing wine at the warehouse.

Some Costcos employ a resident wine advisor to help members with selecting the perfect bottle of red, white, rosé, or bubbly.

"They have no vested interest in promoting a certain wine," Reyes said. "Their goal is just to increase the wine sales. They're good resources. They have all the insider info without an ulterior motive."

Cullen added that the Costco Wine Blog's forums are also a good space for sharing tips and making and receiving wine recommendations.

"It's such a good community of people," he said. "There's virtually no haters. It's 99% positive people on the same mission. That's made it more fun."

<ul><li> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/best-retail-jobs-glassdoor-2018-11?utm_source=intl&amp;utm_medium=ingest">Here are the best retailers to work for in 2019, according to employees</a> </li><li> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/burger-king-mcdonalds-whopper-deal-weirdest-fast-food-ads-2018-12?utm_source=intl&amp;utm_medium=ingest">Burger King is forcing customers to go to McDonald's for one-cent Whoppers. Here are 7 of the weirdest deals and ads in recent fast-food history.</a> </li><li> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/kirkland-brand-items-costco-shouldnt-buy-2018-12?utm_source=intl&amp;utm_medium=ingest">5 times you shouldn't buy the Kirkland brand at Costco</a> </li></ul>

SEE ALSO: From entire lawn sets to used toilets, these are the most ridiculous returns employees from Costco, Walmart, and Target say they've ever gotten

DON'T MISS: Costco sells millions of pumpkin pies every year — and the recipe has apparently been the same since 1987

8 mistakes you should avoid when shopping for wine at Costco (COST)

Would you embark on a 146-day cruise around the world?

That's exactly whatSeabourn, a luxury cruise line, has in mind for its upcoming "Extraordinary Destinations" cruise. The line's flagship, the Seabourn Sojourn, is set to visit five continents and 62 ports in 146 days in 2020.

<a id="221812e1-40d1-3501-a9eb-e3af865daaef" href="https://www.seabourn.com/luxury-cruise-destinations/World-Cruise"> According to Seabourn </a> , this marks the line's first world cruise in six years. The Sojourn is scheduled tocast off from Miami in January 2020 and reachits final destination, San Francisco, in May.

Here's a look inside the luxury cruise ship where passengers will reside during their voyage:

<a id="eafab1e8-d0fa-3184-ac92-cfa024cb3e98" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/luxury-world-cruise-146-days-seabourn-sojourn-2018-9?utm_source=intl&amp;utm_medium=ingest#/#the-650-foot-sojourn-is-registered-in-the-bahamas-and-can-hold-458-passengers-its-fastest-speed-is-19-knots-1"> See the rest of the story at Business Insider </a>

<ul><li> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/most-expensive-home-for-sale-us-los-angeles-chartwell-estate-2018-10?utm_source=intl&amp;utm_medium=ingest">This $245 million Los Angeles mansion is the most expensive home for sale in the US — and it costs 960 times more than a typical US home</a> </li><li> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/richard-branson-necker-island-private-island-caribbean-restoration-photos-2018-11?utm_source=intl&amp;utm_medium=ingest">Richard Branson's Necker Island is back in business a year after Hurricane Irma wreaked havoc and new photos show the private island looking more luxurious than ever</a> </li><li> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/st-moritz-secret-gem-ski-resort-luxury-swiss-alps-photos-2018-11?utm_source=intl&amp;utm_medium=ingest">What it's like to vacation in St. Moritz, the hidden gem in the Swiss Alps where celebrities, billionaires, and royalty go to ski</a> </li></ul>

SEE ALSO: 17 historical photos that show how the wealthy once traveled on ships just like the Titanic

DON'T MISS: Carnival’s president spent a year traveling the world to meet some of her 43,000 employees — here are the 3 questions she asked them

READ MORE: A day in the life of a Disneyland manager who's worked there for 23 years, walks 5 miles daily around the park, and has a 'long-distance' marriage with his wife

The 650-foot Sojourn is registered in the Bahamas and can hold 458 passengers. Its fastest speed is 19 knots.

A new luxury world cruise will take you to 62 ports over 146 days. Here's a look at the ship, where rooms go for $67,000 per person.

Retail work isn't always <a id="7c0ca6d8-ebe2-3e11-ab47-32129939167a" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/costco-walmart-target-employees-horror-stories-2018-5?utm_source=intl&amp;utm_medium=ingest"> easy </a> — but some companies provide a better environment for employees than others.

Glassdoor just ranked the <a id="a4f54239-c6db-335b-a216-f028666f8327" href="https://www.glassdoor.com/Award/Best-Places-to-Work-LST_KQ0,19.htm"> best places to work </a> in 2019. Eight retail companies made the job site's list this year, accruing average scores on Glassdoor well above the site average of 3.4

Glassdoor also provided Business Insider with seven additional companies that just missed out on the top 100 rankings. A Glassdoor spokesperson confirmed that none of the scores indicate ties, as the ratings go beyond the thousandth decimal place.

Here are the top retailers to work for in 2019:

Glassdoor score : 4.1

"The culture of Lush is really great," a Glassdoor <a id="91a9d445-9bbe-3097-a14c-64bc09008341" href="https://www.glassdoor.com/Reviews/LUSH-North-America-Reviews-E340159_P3.htm"> reviewer </a> wrote on June 1, 2018. "They're extremely accepting of all kinds of people, they give a lot to charity, and seem to truly believe in the products."

"I feel incredibly fortunate to work for a company that has uncompromising brand and customer service standards and strong balance sheet," a Glassdoor <a id="306a7922-36ab-3b98-a187-bfc5be051d4f" href="https://www.glassdoor.com/Reviews/Ralph-Lauren-Reviews-E2937.htm"> reviewer </a> wrote on June 27, 2018.

"A great company to work for," one Glassdoor <a id="784fe31d-daa9-3380-adf3-30feb74b38d7" href="https://www.glassdoor.com/Reviews/Publix-Reviews-E2945_P3.htm"> reviewer </a> wrote on November 12, 2018. "Great for a first job to anyone looking for a job. Flexible hours to meet family needs."

"I love my job so much," one Glassdoor <a id="40a39737-af10-31bf-aa5b-f01c53dbfd79" href="https://www.glassdoor.com/Reviews/Wawa-Reviews-E3041_P4.htm"> reviewer </a> wrote on October 13, 2018. "I care about the people I work with and all my managers are wonderful."

Glassdoor score : 4.2

"You build great friendships in a fast paced fun environment," a Glassdoor <a id="5f4b98ab-88ad-30ea-aa82-18c98d079e48" href="https://www.glassdoor.com/Reviews/Best-Buy-Reviews-E97_P2.htm"> reviewer </a> wrote on November 27, 2018. "If your managers are good, you will enjoy your job a lot more"

"The team of people you work with and interact with are always fun and out going," a Glassdoor <a id="2da124b8-77a1-31c0-a54a-1d6d1fb0a451" href="https://www.glassdoor.com/Reviews/NIKE-Reviews-E1699.htm"> reviewer </a> wrote on November 22, 2018. "The culture makes your experience when working at Nike."

"If you love the outdoors you can learn a lot from your coworkers if you want to try something new," a Glassdoor <a id="709e3cd1-2abf-37b8-ac8e-8615806e3adb" href="https://www.glassdoor.com/Reviews/REI-Reviews-E7319.htm"> reviewer </a> wrote on November 7, 2018. "Most customer are easy to work with because they're there to buy things to have fun."

"This company truly cares about it employees and customers," a Glassdoor <a id="6e4da6fd-f298-3a96-a7e8-2c78eee11c21" href="https://www.glassdoor.com/Reviews/Discount-Tire-Reviews-E6632.htm"> reviewer </a> wrote on November 1, 2018.

"The best part about working at Costco is the friendly work environment and the endless career opportunities," a Costco employee told Business Insider.

Glassdoor score : 4.3

The company aims to be an employee-first company in everything they do," a Glassdoor <a id="03555071-29af-3fde-ae13-5c8a9c4e7255" href="https://www.glassdoor.com/Reviews/ABC-Supply-Co-Reviews-E657069.htm"> reviewer </a> wrote on October 24, 2018. "The company has a very strong family atmosphere and team spirit in everything we do."

"The customers and employees are so awesome, patient, funny, and understanding," a Wegmans employee told Business Insider.

"This company has provided a career for me that has changed my life for the positive," a Glassdoor <a id="37af4913-a8b5-3a86-a082-58912080920e" href="https://www.glassdoor.com/Reviews/Nebraska-Furniture-Mart-Reviews-E20545_P2.htm"> reviewer </a> wrote on September 17. 2018. "NFM has improved my lifestyle, and for that I am grateful."

Glassdoor score : 4.4

"They treat you like family," one Glassdoor <a id="2bcea17d-e69b-3092-a1b6-507750449214" href="https://www.glassdoor.com/Reviews/H-E-B-Reviews-E2824.htm"> reviewer </a> wrote on November 29, 2018. There are many opportunities for advancement."

"As long as I make sure the customer is having a great time, and I'm emphasizing Trader Joe's values, I can talk to people about whatever I want," one Trader Joe's crew member told Business Insider. "No manager has ever told me to stop talking about what I like on register — they all love that I'm engaged. I've discussed politics, religion, movies, philosophy, parenting, and so many other things, all while bagging people's groceries. It's the best."

"The environment and energy is wonderful, the culture is fantastic, and you get awesome perks like credits to fitness studios and clothing discounts," a Glassdoor <a id="30bbcab5-ecfe-31ac-a0f7-9ec3dc2e054a" href="https://www.glassdoor.com/Reviews/lululemon-Reviews-E42589.htm"> reviewer </a> wrote on November 14, 2018.

Are you a retail employee with a story to share? Email acain@businessinsider.com.

<ul><li> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/instagram-most-popular-brands-2018-12?utm_source=intl&amp;utm_medium=ingest">Instagram has revolutionized the way we shop for clothes — and these previously unknown brands are turning out to be winners</a> </li><li> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/kohls-vs-burlington-which-store-is-better-2018-11?utm_source=intl&amp;utm_medium=ingest">We shopped at Kohl's and Burlington to see which was a better store, and there was a clear winner</a> </li><li> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/products-seem-like-they-wouldnt-work-actually-do-2018-11?utm_source=intl&amp;utm_medium=ingest">10 products that seem like they wouldn't work, but are actually great</a> </li></ul>

SEE ALSO: Ikea announced it would be raising wages for its most 'disgruntled' group of US employees

Here are the best retailers to work for in 2019, according to Glassdoor

That's why office holiday parties are such a minefield of awkward situations.

Many offices are doing away with alcohol, or the party altogether, in the wake of sexual misconduct scandals <a id="abb57ee9-cace-38c6-a326-bc480164f3af" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/companies-serving-less-alcohol-at-holiday-parties-2017-12?utm_source=intl&amp;utm_medium=ingest"> currently plaguing a range of industries </a> .

But if your office is having festivities this year, it's crucial to remember that <a id="fd85dc33-a1b2-3bf6-a319-392509da2ae2" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/etiquette-rules-for-the-office-holiday-party-2015-12?utm_source=intl&amp;utm_medium=ingest"> you're pretty much still at work </a> , even if it's a party.

<a id="518a6860-2987-390f-a044-3a1651f16758" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/office-holiday-party-tips-2016-11?utm_source=intl&amp;utm_medium=ingest"> You need to be able to loosen up </a> and enjoy yourself without <a id="5023887c-4dda-3fc8-a985-ef682e86c625" href="http://www.businessinsider.com/we-want-to-hear-your-funniest-office-holiday-party-stories-2016-11?utm_source=intl&amp;utm_medium=ingest"> looking like a complete fool </a> or jeopardizing your job.

Business Insider spoke with HR and career professionals to highlight topics you'll want to avoid at your office holiday party:

Áine Cain

Articles written by the author

17 tips for surviving your office holiday party

What happens when you show up at Costco without a membership card, according to employees (COST)

Walmart CEO reveals why Trump's trade war with China still has him worried over rising prices (WMT)

8 mistakes you should avoid when shopping for wine at Costco (COST)

A new luxury world cruise will take you to 62 ports over 146 days. Here's a look at the ship, where rooms go for $67,000 per person.

Here are the best retailers to work for in 2019, according to Glassdoor

9 things you should never say to your coworkers at the office holiday party

From entire lawn sets to used toilets, these are the most ridiculous returns employees from Costco, Walmart, and Target say they've ever gotten (HD, TGT, WMT, COST)

13 tips for getting the best deals on wine at Costco (COST)

People travel thousands of miles to sell Christmas trees on the streets of Manhattan — meet an Alaskan family who has been doing it for 21 years

11 signs you're about to get a holiday bonus

Ikea announced it would be raising wages for its most 'disgruntled' group of US employees

Here's a look at what the new income tax brackets mean for every type of US taxpayer this year