One-Minute Communications Tips Archive
December 2009

Keeping Happy Hour Happy

Going out with colleagues or clients for happy hour after work? You're not alone. Workers around the world know the benefits of knocking back a few with the people they toil next to all day.

Communication barriers tumble, personal bonds grow, bosses become more approachable. Projects at work receive help from newly created friendships.

But amid all the camaraderie, danger lurks for the unwary.

Despite appearances, the happy hour is a business event. Your boss is still your boss; your client is still your client. They won't be impressed by your drinking skills as much as your social skills.

A question or two about work is OK, but for the most part, talk about topics outside your profession. Bone up on current events, sports and the arts so you won't be tongue-tied in front of someone whom you only see on the job.

And remember, drink in moderation — or not at all.
 

© Arun Sinha, Access Communications. Access Communications is a marketing communications and technical writing firm based in Stamford, Connecticut, USA. Sign up for Access Communications's One-Minute Communication Tip at http://www.AccessConsultingInc.com. Once a month, you'll receive an actionable idea or technique on an aspect of business communications, distilled into about 150 words.

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