It’s no secret that ‘work drinking culture’ is a prominent norm in many western countries and the US. Whether it is an evening out with colleagues or colleagues meeting up after work for a few drinks, the idea of bonding over drinks has become an accepted part of work life in these countries. However, with significant changes in societal values, work drinking culture is beginning to fade as more and more people discover the negative effects of excessive drinking such as health risks, poor performance, and unprofessional behavior.
What is Work Drinking Culture?
Work drinking culture usually refers to social events, such as happy hour and after work drinks, where colleagues come together to bond over drinks. Although these events were designed and accepted to foster social interaction between employees, the culture of drinking has become a norm that is often encouraged and even expected.
Rise of the Work Drinking Culture
It’s really no surprise that work drinking culture has come about. Our country is faced with long hours at work and tons of stress, so it’s perfectly understandable that we search for avenues to relax and escape the professional environment. As such, companies have used work drinking as an effective way to offer employees a chance to escape work stress and get to know each other better.
The Drawbacks of Work Drinking Culture
Unfortunately, work drinking culture has taken a toll on workplace dynamics and productivity. Drinking at work can lead to impairment of judgment, decreased productivity, and unprofessional behavior which can hurt team morale. Similarly, drinking at work can also present serious health risks such as obesity, increased blood pressure, and alcohol dependency. Additionally, many people are uncomfortable drinking at work either because of religious beliefs or personal preferences and therefore can be excluded from work events.
Why Work Drinking Culture is Fading Out
There are various explanations as to why work drinking culture is decreasing.
- Rise in Mental Health Awareness
More people are becoming aware of the detrimental effects of work drinking culture. Collectively, we are becoming more attuned to the issues of mental health and employers are also taking a more serious look at the wellbeing of their employees.
- Acceptance of Different Preferences
As mentioned, many people do not drink due to personal beliefs and lifestyle choices, and employers are more respectful of different preferences and lifestyles. As such, companies are encouraging alternative activities that cater to all employees.
- Core Values Have Changed
Our core values have shifted significantly in the last few years and work drinking culture, which was largely aided by the need to de-stress, has become irrelevant in many workplaces. With the increase in mindfulness activities, professional organizations are also encouraging their employees to take part in more relaxed activities instead of drinking.
- Rising Traveling Expenses
Work drinking culture increases traveling expenses as colleagues may often have to travel to a bar, pub, or restaurant to have their drinks — expenses that can be a burden to the company. Also, there is often a fine dividing line between what’s considered ‘work’ and ‘play’, which raises ethical concerns.
- Digitalization
The rise of digitalization has made workplace chats easier and more effective as employees can create conversations in an organized platform and track conversations in a more efficient manner. As such, companies are turning to digitalization for a better work-life balance.
- Workplace Pressure
More and more companies are pressuring their employees to put more hours at work which means less time for socializing. With this, colleagues are seemingly loathed to venture out after work and entertain ‘work drinking’.
- More Progressive Environment
With the progress of our society as a whole, there is also a change in the attitude of employees towards risk taking and overall professional atmosphere. Employees are now more aware of the negative consequence of unprofessional behavior, which is leading to a more sober drinking atmosphere in the workplace.
Suggested Alternatives to Work Drinking Culture
Regardless of whether companies have or have not completely eliminated the culture of work drinking, it is still important for the organization to provide an atmosphere that encourages its employees to bond, communicate effectively, and have a good time together outside of their daily routines. Here are some alternative activities that employers should consider that is an effective substitute for work drinking culture.
- Potluck Parties
Potluck is a great way for colleagues to come together and indulge in a variety of cuisines, create conversations, and have fun. This can be easily organized in a work environment, with everyone contributing and cooking for each other — gifts that keeps on giving.
- Team Building Activities
Team-building activities, such as bowling and game nights, help promote communication and friendship among colleagues while also providing an outlet to destress. They can also help colleagues build trust amongst each other, and furthermore stimulate creativity, relationships, and overall morale.
- Movie Nights
Watching a movie with colleagues is a great way to get to know each other more, laugh together, and form stronger connections. It is an inexpensive form of entertainment and an effective way to create camaraderie without drinking.
It is clear that the work drinking culture is declining and this is mainly due to shift in attitudes, preferences, and values. Instead of the traditional work drinking activities, employers should turn to alternative activities to promote a healthier and more progressive workplace. Through these activities, colleagues can still come together to bond, communicate, and have a good time — all without having to drink.
