I remember my first company happy hour.  I was a few weeks out of college and for me a trip to the bar usually meant an evening of binge drinking – not networking and small talk. Despite my desires to let the college kid inside me overtake my professional demeanor, like doctor Jekyll/Mr. Hyde, I over came and followed a few simple rules that kept me grounded. Since that day a couple of years ago, I have become a self proclaimed happy hour specialist.  If you follow a few simple rules you can be too.

1. Know your audience.

First off, know who you are drinking with.  Are you having a few beers with the corporate big wigs or are you going out to have a few “extra” drinks with your BOF’s (best office friends)?  This fact can make all the difference in how you behave.

I have a couple of very close office friends.  We have known each other for years and we went to college together – so when we go out we can be a little more informal. On the other hand, when we are informed that the regional practice leader is planning to attend I maintain a strict business demeanor.

I even prepare a few things to talk about – because inevitably the boss will ask about my projects.

2. Happy hour small talk.

Before a happy hour, especially when I know the bosses are going to be there, I always have a few highlights I plan to share.  When the boss asks, “so what are you working on right now?” the last thing I want to do is stutter over a few useless things I have done recently.  Instead, I can list off a few highlights making it obvious to the boss that I have been earning my paycheck.

Another thing I like to do is have a few ideas I am interested in pursuing to talk about.  For example, if I know that my boss is an expert in a certain area that I am also interested in, I talk about that.  I try to let him know that I want an opportunity in that area of business.  It never hurts to show that you are interested and prepared.

3. The two beer limit.

The LAST thing you want to do at an important happy hour is to get drunk in front of senior partners and managers. You do not want to end up like Susan that used to work here, but was let go after an interesting evening she had with the barkeep at the last happy hour.  Limit yourself to two beers that way you are loose enough to talk while maintaining the ability to keep your wits about you.  Enjoy a beer and chat about work – this is not a frat party so leave the keg stands for the weekend.

4. Do not do something you will regret.

Far too often someone gets a little too comfortable with the office crowd and decides having a few extra drinks is a good great idea.  Inevitably they become intoxicated, emotional, and end up crying on the CEO’s shoulder about their failing marriage – leaving everyone feeling uncomfortable.

Avoid this situation by abiding by rule #3 above.  If you do find yourself a little more intoxicated than you meant to be, simply excuse yourself for a moment.  Grab a bite to eat and a glass of water – cut yourself off!  You will be happy you followed this advice tomorrow.

5. Remember the drive home.

Regardless of how many beers or who your gathering is with, remember the trip home.  Getting a DUI or in an accident after leaving a company happy hour is not going to do your career any favors.

Even if you make it home without incident, remember that how you behave in front of coworkers is how they will judge you.  If you act irresponsibly and drive home under the influence – they will treat you that way.  However, if they see you are responsible and take your decisions seriously – by getting a ride home – people will respect that.

Once, we let a co-worker drive home when it was obvious that he probably shouldn’t.  I was new on the job and a little afraid to tell a manager to call a cab.  In the end, he made it home fine, but I have always questioned his judgment since then. (I haven’t made the mistake of letting someone drive home under the influence again either!)  Just remember, how one acts in life reflects on them professionally.  Keep that in mind during social events.

6. Have fun.

Hey, you are out with co-workers drinking beers on the company dime.  Who can complain about that? Have some fun!