Business etiquette can seem like a daunting world to be understood—there are all sorts of unwritten rules and expectations to be learned when one goes into business. Some of them might be very unique to your field of industry, or to your local or regional area. One such consideration is alcohol—should you or should you not include alcohol in your business meetings and gatherings?
In my years of working with various businesses and groups, I have found alcohol to be a very interesting custom. Working with performing arts organizations and businesses, alcohol was always present at just about every activity—from board and committee meetings to galas and gatherings. However, when I worked with human services organizations, alcohol was a big no-no. It is still customary in some fields to have the glass of wine with lunch, but there are also industries and locations where alcohol has definitely become a thing of the past.
When you take in to considerations public and other people’s expectations around alcohol, and then add in your own personal feelings about whether or not alcohol belongs at business meetings—you can see where it can get a little cloudy. You will have to balance out your own personal feelings and expectations with those of your clients or customers. I’ve found the best route to go in today’s climate is to keep the option open for alcohol, but not to push it one way or the other. If someone else wants to have a glass of wine or a cocktail, they should be allowed without feeling judged. It also depends on whether you are facilitating the meeting or if you are attending. I think a person almost has more freedom and flexibility if he or she is one of the attendees—you can choose to have a drink or not, depending on how you feel. If you are the one facilitating, your actions can influence others. It takes very special care and tact to create a feeling of openness and options—regardless of what your own personal preference might be. If you provide alcohol, people will feel like they have to drink. If you abstain, people feel as though they will be judged if they have a drink. It’s a tough one!
Any suggestions for how to tactfully handle the alcohol issue when it comes to business meetings and how to reflect best upon you and your home business?
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Office Party Etiquette–7 Tips to Preserve Your Professional Image