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Just Don't Do It: The Three 'Don'ts' of Holiday Office Parties

By Gabriella Khorasanee, JD on December 06, 2013 | Last updated on March 21, 2019

Holiday office parties are notorious for obnoxious, inappropriate behavior. We remember the days when we were greedy associates, hearing about all the scandals that happened at the previous years' office party. Believe us, you don't want to become part of the holiday office party lore at your firm.

But look, you've got billables, so to help you out, we've narrowed it down to just three "don'ts." Here are three things you should avoid at all cost to prevent becoming part of the holiday office party legends:

1. Don't Dress Inappropriately

We can't stress this enough; whether it's summer, a Halloween party or Christmas/Hanukah/Kwanza/whatever -- always dress appropriately at work. Just because it's a holiday party does not mean you should break out your ugly Christmas sweater for a laugh. It also doesn't mean that you should break out the cleavage, either. It's still a work event, keep that in mind when picking out something to wear.

2. Don't Get Wasted

As with any other work event that includes alcohol, don't get drunk. Yes, it's hard not to get drunk when you're over-worked, over-stressed and there's an open bar five-feet away from you. It was also hard to pass the bar exam, but you did it. Exert self control and get wasted later with your friends when your coworkers are not around.

3. Don't Cross Boundaries

Don't hook up, get busy, or do the nasty --- whatever you want to call it. Don't engage in these kinds of activities with your co-workers, and definitely don't start a fling (or break up a marriage) at your holiday office party. You run the risk of ruining your reputation, being accused of sexual harassment, or violating firm policy -- there are so many reasons you shouldn't do this -- just don't do it.

Share holiday party horror stories with us on Twitter; tweet us @FindLawLP.

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