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For those keen on career advancement, it might sound counter-intuitive, but some recent research suggests that drinking less could actually be having an unexpected impact on young people’s networking and career prospects. While getting cocktails on a terrace in Bath might feel like pure fun, there’s more to after-work drinks and socials than meets the eye.
The Research: What It Actually Says About Drinking & Career Success
A striking analysis by The Independent highlights a sociology study from the University of Oslo which tracked more than 3,000 Norwegians from age 13 to 31 and found a correlation between heavy drinking sessions in youth and higher levels of education and income later in life. The researchers argue that alcohol may act as a “social lubricant”, helping young adults build networks, confidence and social capital in informal settings.
At the same time, other reports note that today’s younger generations (such as Generation Z) are drinking less than previous ones — which on the face of it sounds great for health, but might mean fewer social-drinks occasions where networking happens naturally.
Gen Z’s Lower-Alcohol Lifestyle Meets a Drinking-Centric Work Culture
On the flip side, many organisations still hold team-builds, after-work events and informal drinks at bars — events that remain a hotbed for networking and informal career interactions. When fewer young people join in, they may miss out on those subtle benefits.
One recent survey found that although Gen Z are drinking less, they still feel excluded in workplaces where drinking is central. So, while skipping the extra pint might boost your liver, it could also mean skipping the handshake in the stairwell, the casual chat at the bar, or the “pop-in for one more” moment that turns into your next opportunity.
What This Means for Your Career – And How to Play It Smart
Don’t panic: this isn’t a “you must drink to succeed” manifesto. It’s about understanding the social dimension of career-growth — and then mastering it in your own way.
Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Be present in the social-networking spaces, even when alcohol isn’t involved. If the Indie research says drinking helped build networks, then look for the networking bit and replicate it with non-alcoholic options.
- Choose occasions wisely: go to that after-work terrace (hello outdoor cocktails Bath!) or join the informal gathering. Being there counts.
- Value the “third place”: informal chats over drinks often become stepping-stones. At your next terrace session or private hire event (or even at a non-alcoholic mocktail night), make sure you’re part of the conversation.
- Make your own rules: If you prefer sober or low-alcohol, you can still leverage the setting. Suggest a mocktail and use the time to talk strategy, network, pitch ideas.
- Link it to your own path: Remember the research’s core idea: sociability, networking, informal engagement mattered. So treat those terrace-cocktail events as career-building, not just fun.
Why This Matters at a Venue Like Ours
When you come to us for outdoor cocktails in Bath, or for student-friendly bar nights, private-hire or hen-party packages, you’re not just enjoying an evening — you’re placing yourself in a setting where social capital is built. Whether it’s those terrace chats, student nights with friendly staff, or group bookings where introductions happen naturally, your evening could also be an investment in your network.
We’ve designed our cocktail lounge with the best-cocktail bar in Bath mentality: friendly staff, outdoor terrace, and group-friendly environment. It’s a place where enjoyable nightlife meets smart connections.
Ready to join the scene and also play the social game? Book your table now or call us on 01225 466667. Whether for al-fresco drinks, student nights, or a networking evening, let’s make your night out count.
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