Things to Know About Office Happy Hour

So you’ve been invited to an after-work happy hour?

You might think that attendance is optional, but the truth is, by not going, you are missing out on valuable opportunities. For one thing, sharing social experiences with your coworkers can make it a lot easier to communicate about actual work. For another, if your supervisor is at the happy hour, this is one of the best chances you can get to make yourself noticed and make real gains in your internship.

Here are some important things you should know about office happy hour:

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It's Not Only About alcohol

If you can't drink alcohol, just say so. Your coworkers will not force you so better let them know. And if you drink alcohol, restrain yourself not to indulge to much alcohol. After all, office happy hour is the time to socialize not drinking.

Ensure that you attend

No matter how you feel about these types of events, making a polite appearance for an hour will show that you are a team player. If nothing else, an office happy hour is a way to network and get your name out there. Avoid using the event as a chance to pitch new ideas; however, you can hint at your work-related visions to impress.

It’s still considered business

Remember that happy hour with the office is not the same thing as happy hour with your friends. Your reputation is always on the line. You are giving your boss a glimpse of your social skills and your ability to make good decisions in front of your clients.

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Dress Like You're Still at the Office

Since it’s still considered as business, you need to dress properly. Follow the golden rule of mimicking how your superiors look. You can be casual but don’t forget the general sense of professionalism they put forth.

Take advantage of the opportunity to meet new people

Have fun getting to know individuals you would not typically find yourself surrounded by. You may be pleasantly surprised by what you learn about the people you didn’t take much notice of before.

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Avoid office gossip

There are plenty of things to talk about besides your opinion of your coworkers. Though it may seem harmless, you’ll be surprised at how fast news will travel, long after the fun of the evening has worn off. Stick to more polished topics of conversation instead, and if you must talk about the office, keep it professional.

Next time you’re invited to your office happy hour, make sure to say “yes!” Allow yourself to try as many things as possible during your internship program.