Alcohol consumption is ingrained in contemporary business culture. Movies like the Wolf of Wall Street glamorize the idea of mixing business with booze. However, socializing after work can have devastating consequences.
Could a DWI End Your Career?
According to Tyler Flood, Criminal Defense Attorney, many professionals aren’t aware of the seriousness of a DWI.
High profile corporate positions require employees to be outwardly reputable. DWI convictions reflect negatively on organizations. For this reason, high-profile positions are only tenable by employees who can pass rigorous background checks.
How To Behave When Mixing Business With Booze
Socializing after work shouldn’t be avoided entirely. Employees who remove themselves from social events, risk the stigma of ‘not being team players.’ All that employees need to remember, is not to let their hair down completely.
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Rules for Surviving Boozy Office Socials
Drunk driving convictions can jeopardize the employability of even entry-level workers. The first rule of socializing is, therefore, to always leave car keys at home.
Consider Participating without Drinking
Office socials are a fantastic way to better connect with colleagues. However, socializing doesn’t have to include alcohol. Instead, consider choosing soft drink alternatives. Doing so will often command respect from peers and higher-ups.
Keep Your Professional Cool – Even if You Don’t Want To
Crossed communication wires are the number one reason behind alcohol-fueled altercations. In office contexts, there will always be someone with opposing views to your own. In this case, remember to project the same professional persona you do at work, during even informal get-togethers.
Like it or Not, Your Boss is Watching
There is always someone at the office Christmas party who takes things too far. You never want to be that person. Employers, clients, and supervisors will pick up on poor etiquette. As far as they are concerned, you still represent your company, even when not officially on duty.
What to do When Things Go Wrong
When mixing business with booze, you need to be on your best professional behavior. Sadly, other people around you might not be.
- If you see a colleague who seems to be testing their limits, politely pull them aside and advise that they call time on the evening
- Never stand for behavior which would be considered inappropriate in the workplace
- If you find yourself at a DWI checkpoint after an office social, follow the advice of Tyler Flood, Criminal Defense Attorney, and know your full rights
Drunk Driving and Roadside Sobriety Tests
Intoxilyzer breathalizers used by police aren’t 100% accurate. Also, when submitting to chemical blood tests, drivers have the right to have independent tests performed within 2-hours of the original.
Even if you are sure you are under safe driving limits, police tests may show false positives. In this case, always seek professional legal advice immediately after a DWI charge.