[JOT] Sober & Social: Conquering Networking Without the Buzz
Hi Readers,
Law and tech can have a reputation for booze filled happy hours. But I’ve never been much of a drinker. In most environments I find myself in now, this isn’t a big deal. But earlier in my career and in law school, there was a lot more pressure to drink more than I wanted to. We all know "no" is a complete sentence. But here are some tips when no isn’t quite cutting it.
The mocktail. Much like Elsbeth, I unapologetically love shirley temples. But these can be a bit conspicuous to order, especially early in your career. Luckily many bars now offer sophisticated and tasty mocktails.
The faux-G&T. A sparkling water with lime is indistinguishable from a gin and tonic. No one needs to know there’s no gin.
A different kind of happy hour. You don’t have to go to a bar out of habit. I’ve had a lot of success with suggesting an ice cream, boba, or bakery happy hour instead. In fact, this is my go to suggestion when I meet with my mentees.
Fill your plate. Particularly at standing events, filling your plate makes holding a drink at the same time less practical. People are less likely to ask if you’d like a drink if your hands are full.
The Strategic "Accept and Set Down": Faced with an insistent drink pusher who isn’t taking no for an answer? Just take the drink, hold it for a while, then discreetly put it down later.
Bottom Line: You do not have to drink (or drink a lot) to be professional.
Stay curious,
Teri