I Don't Drink, is it Hurting My Career?

Dear Experts, I've been with my company for a little over a year. I do a good job, there have been no complaints. I just got my review and I was told that I should work on my team building skills. I was really mad. I think I do a great job of working with my peers. The only thing I can think of is that the rest of them like to go out after work and have drinks. I don't drink so I don't go. They definitely seem more like friends in the office as a result, but that shouldn't be my responsibility, should it? I don't get paid to go out and socialize with them, and yet, I think I'm getting penalized because of it. Here is how our T.A.P. experts answered this question:Q#316 I don't drink either. However, sometimes I have to force myself to socialize, even if I'm not drinking and others are. (@gradversity) Q#316 Get spec exmples of what teamwork lks like; u can go out & drink seltzer (as I do), ask folks 2 lunch. (@juliaerickson) Q#316 Teambuilding means more than going out w co-workers 4 drinks. Ask boss 4 specific exmp where u could improve. (@kgrantcareers) Q#316 Nobody said you had to go drinking. And I don't drink, but I make up for it with awesomeness at work. (@beneubanks) Q#316 Don't have to drink. Take interest in co-worker's hobbies/interests as a way to get to know them better. (@jtodonnell) Q#316 If the culture supports mingling then go. U don't have 2 drink 2 socialize after hrs. Get a club soda & engage away. (@DebraWheatman) Our Twitter Advice Project (T.A.P.) is no longer an active campaign. To find an answer to the above question, please use the "Search" box in the right-hand column of this website.

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