Survive Your Office Outing

Office outings have a purpose — to raise morale, help employees blow off steam, or foster team building. But that doesn’t mean they’re always enjoyable. If you’re not one for the “forced fun” of a work social event, try these tactics: 

Find a way to participate. Don’t spend the whole time calculating when you can politely leave. Join in. For example, if you don’t want to actively participate in a game, cheer on your teammates or take photos instead.

Focus on connecting. Treat the outing as an exercise in learning about your colleagues. Ask questions that draw people out. You’re likely to uncover information that will help you work better with your co-workers.

Keep yourself in check. If there’s alcohol being served and you choose to partake, be disciplined. People will take notice if you start acting goofy or making impolite comments.











Source: TToday's Management Tip was adapted from HBR Guide to Office Politics.

© Nick Kalikajaros 2019