It’s no secret that for centuries people have used drinking to celebrate special occasions or to bring people together. I don’t really see it as a “good” or “bad” thing when done in moderation. Of course that is me as of late … not me circa 1996-2006 (may she rest in peace).
But where does drinking stand when it comes to the office? Yes, I will be giving a television reference here but look at shows like Boston Legal and Ally McBeal. Please note of course that I realize these are both lawyer sitcom/dramas. There is always a silver of truth in even the shows we watch. Is it just the lawyers who can get away with the booze? Well lawyers AND journalists for I’m sure there are quite a few of the latter that could be considered quite pickled by now.
I recently attended a happy hour of sorts with co-workers. It was under the guise of being a send-off for someone heading to a different office. But I also think it was orchestrated as an event to finally relax, blow off steam and regroup. My question is, was that such a good idea? There were direct reports there, sitting right next to their bosses and having a few sips of whiskey.
To my knowledge I don’t feel we broke the work laws by partaking in the fire water after hours. I am not even really worried about next week. But I do wonder if it was ultimately the right move. I think we all wanted so much to just chill out and not worry about crap for ONE evening. I let go, everyone let go. It was freeing and everyone stayed tame and uncontroversial for the most part while being tipsy. So is it really all that taboo anymore to share a few drinks with folks from the office?
It’s not like anyone got naked anyway…
But isn’t that left for the company Christmas party? I mean, holiday party.
a writer dodging bullets. 
Posted by Mark Richardson on Monday, August 27, 2007 at 3:56 pm
A drink with the co-workers is okay by me. People are so uptight and politically correct in the U.S. In most other countries this question would be seen as silly. But I do know where you’re coming from.
http://markrich.wordpress.com/
Posted by Davidthejackal on Monday, August 27, 2007 at 4:23 pm
As with anything, it’s not what you do, but how you do it and, who you do it with. I would advise discretion about anybody I have a drink with.Everything is’nt foor everybody
Posted by potentialandexpectations on Monday, August 27, 2007 at 5:52 pm
Here in the UK, having a drink with your coworkers is perfectly acceptable. Getting drunk with your coworkers is also acceptable but, personally, I don’t think it’s at all wise. There’s a big difference between the two and, as long as that is respected, then I think it’s fine to have a drink with the people you work with all week. Done well, it can boost morale and teamwork. Done badly, it can ruin your career. But if you’re a grown-up, you ought to be able to navigate that risk.
Posted by Arm Jerker J. on Monday, August 27, 2007 at 8:22 pm
“Done well, it can boost morale and teamwork. Done badly, it can ruin your career. But if you’re a grown-up, you ought to be able to navigate that risk.”
Potential: I think you have hit the nail on the head right there. I think the same thing. However, agreeing with Mark, people today DO spend a lot of time being politically correct and uptight about things so hence, the hesitation. I took it all in stride and I do think it brought up morale a bit.