Do you think it looks bad if I don’t go to a happy hour that my work team is all attending? Especially since it’s after hours?

[Anonymous]

My boss said it’s optional, but will it look bad anyway?

Yes

No

[Smoke-n-Growls]

If everyone is going, it's a good chance to get face time with the team. Especially if you're remote working, it's even more important.

Plus, work goes easier if you have a good relationship with your coworkers.

If you're free, go for it. If you're busy, decide if your plans are more valuable. It's totally valid if you have housework, chores, or just need your "me time".

But again, social outings can really help you bond with your team - and that can make work easier to manage. If you can spare the time, it might be worthwhile.

Personally, I like to meet up with coworkers every now and again. It helps me feel connected, build stronger relationships and I genuinely enjoy my coworkers - so it's a win all-round.

It's not a frequent thing, so I don't mind investing the time when I'm free.

[Anonymous]

You have to know your team. If this is how they bond and build rapport with themselves and/or the boss, it's probably best to go, but limit or not drink. If it is just totally casual, whoever goes, goes, then I wouldn't worry about it but I'd advise you at least try to attend one or a few if you get invited again as constantly dipping out on the social hour doesn't really endear you to the team.

[monkeynutts]

Depends, if you feel uncomfortable drinking with colleges, drinking is a cultural practice, and it's also dangerous for your health, the whole reason for happy hours is to drag the public into bars between 4-5 pm and get them as drunk on cheap alcohol as possible. It's actually very bad behaviour, not good for your health.

[Drumlin2001]

I'd suggest going for a short period. Show some willing to socialise. Unless there's a specific reason not to (caring commitments etc)

[exitseven]

I used to always be the first one at work. I would get there at 7AM and leave at 3 oclock. Every month there was some function and my boss was always after me to go but I used to k]just tell him that I had to get up early the next day.

I did go to the two Christmas parties and they were actually fun.

[olzart]

I think it ultimately depends on your level of comfort and trust with those you work with. If you know that people are two-faced so to speak I’d say don’t go, but if that’s not your concern then maybe do go.


Overall it shouldn’t reflect poorly on you.

[blarenbond]

If you're not afraid of missing out on things, it'll be fine. Perhaps you could go with them another time if they do this more often

[Fuentes]

Lol no I don't stick around much after work i dipp out once I clock out. And I barely go to group events or outings. I have been tricked before into double dates like three times. So I try my best to avoid work "outings"

[lightbulb27]

Yes. Just show up and leave early. Don’t drink… I wouldn’t do so at work events

[Lunatic1]

It may look bad to your coworkers that you aren't being social with them, but the choice is ultimately yours.

[Light909090]

Yeah You will be EVIL if you don’t go

[Texaskid1]

I would avoid it.

[Lovethecountry]

I don't drink so I wouldn't attend if it was me

[whiskeyontherocks]

Yes but I would still not participate

[Libertycityguy]

I would avoid drinking alcohol with coworkers.

[Anonymous]

No it won't look bad especially if you're sober