If you’ve ever been to a company holiday party, chances are you’ve played witness to another’s tragedy, or been a victim yourself.

The mysterious Xerox of someone’s bare bum, the dirty joke told to the boss’ wife, the dance-floor stagger, the indecent proposal to the 19-year-old administrative assistant.

But what happens Monday morning, when the booze wears off and reality sets in?

Making an ass out of yourself at the office mixer doesn’t have to be the end of the world. It’s vital, though, that you atone quickly and decisively.

Most often, the cure is as simple as saying you’re sorry, says Kelly Moore, division director for Office Team.

“If you’ve offended someone, just pull that person aside and apologize,” she says. “If it was a slight flub, you can even make light of it. If it was alcohol-induced, you could say, ‘I should have stayed away from the eggnog.’.”

But don’t, Moore warns, ignore the situation and hope it goes away.

“Don’t just act like it didn’t happen,” she said. “You don’t want the person you upset to think you don’t care.”

And don’t think you can get out of it with a quick e-mail, either. “Do it face to face,” she says. “You could put yourself deeper in a hole. It’s easy to misconstrue your words in an e-mail.”

And, if you feel it necessary, go to your supervisor or to human resources for advice as well.

But what if the boss overheard you badmouthing him or her? You’d better clear the air, double-time.

“Explain yourself honestly,” Moore says. "Tell your boss you value working there and value him or her as your boss. If you said something out of anger, say so and explain the situation.

“A lot of managers will put themselves in your place. They’ll tell you they appreciate your honesty.”

But what inebriate errors are unforgivable? Tim Browning, co-owner of Print Resources, remembers when an employee of his — who was already on the hot seat — showed up toasted at a holiday get-together. He didn’t have his job for long afterward.

“He was so drunk he couldn’t drive himself there,” he said. “It was more of a formal dinner. It wasn’t that kind of party.”

Of course, prevention is the best medicine when it comes to office party blunders. Brent Tilson, CEO of Tilson HR, warns not to relax too much at an office mixer, because anyone can fall prey.

“Even if it’s a let-your-hair-down type of event, treat it as any other day at the office,” Tilson said.

In good company

Kelly Moore, division director for Office Team, offers advice for making the most of the office party:

Go to the party: “It’s a work function, and it might create the impression you don’t care about your job if you blow it off.”

Mingle: “Don’t just stick to your friends. It’s a great opportunity to talk to people in other departments.”

Watch what you say: “You’re not at work, but you’re still around your co-workers and bosses. Steer clear of discussing religion, politics or ideas that might offend people.”

Don’t booze it up too much: “Be cautious about how much you drink, and remember you’re around managers and other bosses, people you’re trying to make an impression on every day.”

I want that job

Interviews with people whose careers we envy.

Derek Rudd creative developer, derekrudd.com

Rudd, based in Greenwood, builds interactive Web sites, applications, and games, integrating interactive motion and slick graphics to his projects. His handiwork includes movie sites for the films “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre” and “The Number 23,” and work for Nike.

How do I get your job?

I have no idea. I just got interested in motion on the Web and spending all of my time at Borders researching.

What’s the worst job you’ve had?

Hardware consultant. I had to deal with pissed-off people all day. I guess I wasn’t cut out for BS-ing all day.

Why is your job not as great as it looks?

Ridiculous hours and always wanting to come up with a “cool new thing.”

Why is your job the best job in the world?

Flexible hours, being able to release my creativity, and the ability to change how people think/interact on the Web.