First Work Social: Play hard…but not too hard!
So, you read our blog on what to expect on your first day at work and it went smoothly, you’ve settled in and you’ve now been invited to your first work social event. Very exciting! But what can you expect from this and what do you need to bear in mind before attending?
You’ve all heard the term work hard, play hard right? It’s where your hard work in the office is rewarded by letting your hair down and enjoying yourself outside of work. We absolutely support and encourage that, just don’t go overboard. Whilst not all your work socials will involve the consumption of alcohol here is our survival guide to make sure you don’t go overboard!
The event type
Your first work social is an opportunity to spend time with your colleagues. You will be working together most days, so it makes sense to get to know them.
First of all, it’s important to find out what type of event it is and what the tone will be, so chat to colleagues and find out ask if there is a dress code. Don’t turn up in clubbing gear expecting a 5am finish if it’s just a nibble and chat in the office! Equally, you also don’t want to arrive in shorts and a t-shirt for a sophisticated dinner in the city centre.
Who’s attending?
If you’ve only been with the company for a short time, chances are that you’ve only met a handful of your colleagues properly. This might be your first chance to meet the Marketing Manager, Finance Director or CEO – don’t worry, they’re not that scary!
If you find out who’s attending, this will help you gauge the tone, there are many different types of work socials, some just involve your immediate team, others the entire company. Find out if your business has an ‘Expected Behaviours Policy’ If you’re not sure – err on the side of caution especially when it comes to having drinks. Make sure you are remembered for the right reasons! 
Play hard…but not too hard!
It’s your opportunity to get to know people you are working with, so it is ok to have a few drinks if you want to, just don’t go overboard. Carrying cash is one way to limit yourself. If you only take enough for a few drinks, there isn’t the temptation to go overboard and start ordering shots for everyone!
Plan your route home before arriving
We also recommend planning your route home before arriving, especially if an event occurs at night. Think about pre-booking a taxi or organising somebody to pick you up at a particular time. If you have a lift sorted before arriving, you will be conscious of the time and won’t make the mistake of trying to drag your colleagues to a club at 2am!
Is there anybody attending who lives near you? Ask if they want to share a taxi. While ensuring you stay responsible, it might save you some money too!
So, there you have it; our survival guide to your first work social. Hopefully, you don’t feel too scared after reading and remember that it’s actually a really fun event…be yourself, enjoy yourself and don’t play too hard!
