How To Mix Coworkers and Cocktails Like a Professional

By Brian Maynor

 

With lots of parties, lunches, events and cocktail receptions taking place in the next few weeks mixing business and pleasure is the name of the game this season, but these are ordinary social situations.

Here are a few tips to keep in mind when mixing coworkers and cocktails so that you remain professional and come through with your reputation intact:

1.   First things first, show up. It’s easy to push off social invitations as optional, but they really aren’t. Engaging with your peers and bosses in social situations is a great way to build networks and relationships that extend beyond the confines of business. As tired as you are of both work and the people you work with, dig deep and find the energy to attend and participate. If you don’t, you could be isolating yourself and damaging your professional advancement.

2.    Pick your drink wisely. We all have a favorite or go-to drink when we’re in social situations, but sometimes it’s better to avoid them and pick something you like less. Work events are among those situations. When you are enjoying your favorite cocktail it’s easy to over indulge, but when you pick something you’re less fond of you will sip it over a longer period of time and better control the amount you drink.

3.    Keep the conversation light, but don’t gossip. Cocktails are social lubricants, but they also create a false sense of camaraderie. Resist the urge to talk about the latest office gossip, or participate in someone else’s rant over your boss or coworker’s competence.   In the moment, it may feel liberating to let it out, and that you’re bonding, but at 9 a.m. the next morning you may feel differently when you have to face the people you trashed completely sober.

4.    Have an exit strategy. Knowing when to leave is an art, because you don’t want to be the first to leave or the last, but sometimes making a graceful exit can be difficult. The best solution is to have another place to go, like dinner with your spouse. Setting a reservation ahead of time lets you attend the event, have sufficient time to mix and mingle, and excuse yourself within a reasonable amount of time.

Work related social functions are a part of the game and you have to show up to play. By following a few simple tips you can relax and have fun without the worry of over-indulging because there is a wide gap between enjoying yourself and embarrassing yourself.

 

 

Click here or on the images below to learn more about the outfit.

 

 

 

Click here or on the images below to learn more about the outfit.

 

 

 

I am always curious to hear from you and what you see in the workplace. Send your questions, comments and pet peeves to [email protected]. Also find each of these storyboards at http://brianmaynor.polyvore.com with links to purchase each item.

 

 

 

About Brian Maynor

Brian Maynor has built a reputation as one of the leading style coaches in the Southeast and is quickly expanding his eponymous company, BRIAN MAYNOR and his FIND, FLATTER & FLAUNT line of image consulting services. A professional with a fresh, upbeat and down-to-earth personality and boundless creative energy, he works frequently with with local celebrities; Fortune 500 companies and nonprofit organizations; modeling agencies; fashion designers; production companies; record labels; media and individuals. A regular contributor to various fashion blogs and online communities, Brian Maynor is one of the most trusted and recognized style experts in the region, utilizing his education and training as a broadcast journalist to serve as a style lecturer, emcee, and commentator for over a decade. He has appeared at fashion shows, expos, and charity fundraisers, as well as events with big brands like Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, Chico’s and Macy’s. His approach is innovative, creative and fashion-forward, balancing fresh, modern styles with classic pieces to keep one’s look grounded. To learn more, visit http://www.brianmaynor.com.

 

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