Holiday parties can often lead to inappropriate behavior, especially where alcohol is served. Greetings can include unwelcome hugs and kisses and excessive alcohol consumption often leads to uncomfortable sexual remarks, propositions and touching. In light of #MeToo, some employers are skipping their holiday parties for fear of sexual harassment claims. Others are not serving alcohol. That is a shame. Many employees look forward to end of the year celebrations as a reward for a job well done by all. 

Don't cancel. Have the party and use the event as an opportunity to educate your employees and executives about proper behavior and take proper precautions. How else will we change our work culture? 

Organize responsible chaperones for the event (who should not be drinking and who can intervene with respect to any inappropriate behavior). Include a few off-duty police officers if needed. Consider inviting spouses to minimize bad behavior and any temptation for employees to “hook up”. Announce in advance that you expect all attendees to follow the company’s code of conduct, dress and sexual harassment policies, and to drink responsibly since this is a work event. Emphasize that any violator will be appropriately disciplined, including termination. Offer discounts for Uber and local hotel stays. If you are concerned about excess alcohol consumption, consider providing drink tickets for the first few drinks and a cash bar thereafter, or limit the time of the party to 2 to 3 hours. Offer plenty of hors d’oeuvres and whatever you do, avoid hanging a mistletoe!

Remind your employees that the goal is to have fun—but not too much fun. If you do end up with a sexual harassment claim, remember that office parties at off site locations are considered part of the workplace and any such claim should be handled in strict accordance with your company's sexual harassment policies and procedures. Employees should be reminded that they are encouraged to report any inappropriate behavior and that retaliation for reporting will not be tolerated. 

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