Whether it’s casual Thursday in the pub or the office summer barbecue, navigating through work drinks takes finesse. Maybe you don’t want to go, but you should. You may dread getting wedged beside IT Dave again, but skipping drinks altogether is not only poor form, it also means you won’t have a clue what everyone is whispering about the next morning.
Mind that order. A jug of Long Island Ice Tea is fine with your friends in Ibiza, but stick to wine and beer with the boss. They will judge you.
If there’s an open bar, don’t stockpile drinks like they’re canned goods in a hurricane – the tab will last more than 10 minutes. If there’s no tab, get your round in. They’ll remember if you don’t.
You may be feeling friendly with your boss outside the office, but burning their ear about your sister’s wedding won’t buy you any favours. And alcohol is not truth serum so refrain from telling them how you feel about everyone in your department.
Respect the fine line between being flirty and a bit desperate. Office hook-ups are just a no-no. And tonight is not the night to get carried away with some randomer in the corner either.
Things may get out of hand. It happens. But if you’ve work the next morning, take the time to shower. Rocking up a few minutes late is better than smelling like the back bar in Flannery’s. Trust us.
