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A Survival Guide to Working During the Holidays

By Cynthia Hsu, Esq. on December 21, 2011 | Last updated on March 21, 2019

For most Americans, the holiday season is a time for feast, family, and fun. That is, unless you're a BigLaw associate. If you are, you're probably trying to figure out the best way to explain to your parents that you have to write 3 motions before Santa can hit the chimney.

That whole "no smartphones" at the table rule that your relatives love to employ?

That simply won't work -- you've got work to do. And, you're in good company. Around 64% of employees surveyed by Regus PLC said they plan to work the week between Christmas and New Year's. What can you do to soften the blow?

Bring the holiday joy to your desk.

If you have to go to the office, the least you can do is deck your desk out in holiday glory. Try to also bring in some holiday edibles to sate your appetite. Stash your firm's fridge with some egg nog and you're good to go. Also, don't forget to bring a bottle of champagne and a glass. You never know if you might need to ring in 2012 solo, with only your brief to keep you company.

Make sure you dress "appropriately."

Reindeer socks, festive themed sweaters, and New Year's Eve dresses are not appropriate work attire. But, who's to stop you if nobody else is in the office? If you can't make it to the party, bring the party to the office (secretly).

Figure out a way to do your work at home.

Okay, so maybe the thought of spending the holidays alone in your office is a bit too depressing. If that's the case, it may be practical to inquire if you can just work from home. If you do, just make sure that you transfer over all the right documents. And that you bill your clients properly.

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