Employees who have worked hard all year long will finally have the chance to let loose and have some fun at the big, corporate-funded occasion of the year - the annual party.

What to expect

At the party there'll be plenty of liquor, exquisite dishes and elaborately dressed colleagues. Raffles are always a hit. And employee performances definitely make up an integral part of any annual party.

It is safe to say that at this year's annual parties, there will definitely be all kinds of "Gangnam Style" renditions, remixes and rejects.

All the dancing and singing will probably end in a company-wide rendition of "aircraft carrier style" - the most popular dance move of 2012. Originally a gesture directing jets taking off from China's first aircraft carrier, the move later became a hot meme as Netizens posted their imitations.

Survival of the fittest

To survive the Chinese-style annual party, you have to know it might be quite different from the kind you're used to in your home country.

First of all, annual party planning agencies may be a growing industry, but most Chinese companies still use their own employees to organize the seasonal shindig. Usually administration or human resources departments take on the task, which can double the workload at the end of the year.

Secondly, instead of hiring professional performers, you, the humble employee, will be expected to compose and direct the evening's entertainment. The party can be more like an employee showdown.

Last but not least, a speech by the boss is inevitable. Just stay alert and be prepared to give enthusiastic applause at any minute, for this is the person who's going to decide on how much your annual bonus will be.