The main goal of mixing business with meals, parties, social events, etc. is to get people to know each other better, develop trust and confidence in others whether its between staff and customers, or companies working and co-operating together on projects, or even to build better teams within the same company.

From company breakfasts to working lunches to holiday cocktail receptions for clients, being in your best business form at any event really pays off. The following general guidelines will help:

Confirm or decline promptly
Its good etiquette to respond to any invitation promptly whether you can make it or not . By timely responding to invitations others won't have to change last minute plans of reservations and any other logistics involved.

Don't Show up late
Generally, a great start of an event begins with you arriving on time. If you arrive late, you give a rude and unprofessional impression of yourself and your company. If you have to be late due to unforeseen circumstances then you shouldn't be late more than 10 - 15 minutes maximum Otherwise you need to phone the host in advance and inform them politely that you will not be able to make it on time and state the reasons.

Dress appropriately for the event
Find out from the host if you are not sure about the appropriate dress code (if any) for the event . Dressing appropriately shows respect and gives a positive image of you and your company.

Don't Bring an uninvited guest
Bringing someone uninvited can stand out in some events and can cause complications. It can cause the host of the events to be short of chairs food, etc It is generally advised to avoid bringing uninvited guests along.

Be friendly and cheerful
Introduce yourself to as many people as you can, be friendly and open to conversation. Networking in these events and getting to know more people can be very helpful in your career. Sometimes one conversation with one person can enlighten you in some way or give you an idea that may be life changing.

Keep up a Positive conversation
Keep conversations within the main interests that most people share. Stay away from the hot topics that cause arguments which are both Politics and Religion. Needless to say, do not get into any confidential corporate information.

Stay sober
The use of any alcoholic beverages in all business and social settings should be consumed in moderation. Especially, at a business event, no one wants to deal with a drunk making a scene.

Give Positive feedback
Do not complain about location or venue to everyone around and start making negative comments and become a source of negativity towards the event. If you see something wrong notify the host/the person responsible for organizing the event discreetly

Know when to Leave
You should be sensitive to know when is the best time to leave, generally when about half the guests start to leave is a good time. Try not to be the first or the last one to leave.

Follow up with a thank-you note, e-mail, card, or letter of appreciation.