HOW OFFICE PARTIES NEED TO CHANGE.

• Position: YOUR LIFE

After America's perennial nice guy Matt Lauer was accused of sexual misconduct in the workplace, and fired by NBC, many people were left shocked. His name is just one of many in the ever-growing pile of powerful men who have been disgraced after their egregious--and sometimes criminal--behavior was brought to light by their female colleagues.

Many human resources specialists are saying massive changes need to take place if companies want to protect their employees and their reputation as a safe place to work, especially as it relates to office parties, whether these get-togethers are around the holidays or not.

"We need to be very careful around our choices," says Rob Wilson, president of Employco USA, Westmont, III. "First, no alcohol at any office party. I know this is not going to be well-received by every employee, but the reality is that alcohol is a match which can ignite a powder keg. You can still serve festive 'mocktails,' or serve coffee, cider, and cocoa. Better yet, have your party early in the day, such as at brunch. People won't be as likely to expect alcohol or a 'wild' atmosphere."

Second, he advises that companies need to be careful when wording their dress-code policy. "In the light of these sexual assault accusations, many people have blamed the victims and suggested that they invited the attention due to their dress or appearance.

'This has created a tricky line for employers to walk: you want to require appropriate clothing at your office party...