Is It Fair for Employers to Require HR Staff to Drink at Work Events?

Hi,

Recently, I received a call from an HR consultant regarding some HR openings with one of their client companies. She asked me a few details, but one question almost shocked me. She inquired whether I drink or not. I responded with a no, which is a fact, but then she informed me that their client had a mandatory requirement that the HR person should drink. The reason given was that the person needs to be a part of many events and parties, and their clientele is of such a nature. The company is one of the most successful and reputed business houses in India.

How fair is this? Can any employer actually impose such a condition for recruitment?

Regards,
Komal

Hi, Komal,

You are lucky that you are not joined this type of company. Otherwise, in the future, she might ask for something worse earlier. You are also advised to follow the path of life that you have designed for the future and never compromise with the surroundings that come into day-to-day life.

Regards,
Rachit Gogia

Hey,

I have also experienced the same with a GEE PEE. I was interviewed for the HR Head Opening in GEE PEE, and the director asked if I had ever drunk in my life and if a situation arose whether I would drink or not.

I replied, "never........"

Without emotions, find out the exact reason.

Yes, a few positions demand that you must join a couple of drinks because of the kind of clients. Outside India, in a few places, people take beer - just like how we grab a can of coke. But that does not mean anyone and everyone would do that - some may say a big no to such drinks and still join the party/conversation by ordering soft/fruit-based drinks. So they don't "look" out of the group.

I don't understand why everyone is thinking so - "HR drinking and sanctioning leave." Where on earth have they requested the employee to drink "every day"? Don't make such a huge issue out of a simple statement.

Komal: Under such scenarios when you are asked if you would drink/consume alcohol if required, you could very well state:

"No, I do not consume alcohol. If that is mandatory, I am sorry - looks like I don't fit the picture. I am a health freak. I would like to know if the Management would be fine if I chose to have a fruit-based/non-alcoholic drink if all that matters is to accompany the clients in the conversation."

Here they may also want to know if you are okay with people around you drinking.

You may tell them your opinion too.

Dear Komal,

There is nothing to be surprised about. It is solely in your hands whether to have a drink or not while attending the party. I have been attending parties for the last 10 years with only fruit drinks or snacks. You can learn more in such environments.

I strongly agree with Ash's view. However, make sure you are steadfast in your decisions. It is within your control. By attending the parties, you can get closer to your colleagues in your job.

All the best!

Asha is absolutely right, there is no point in making it a big issue out of a simple statement. She is very much correct in the way and approach that she has mentioned, on how this could have been tackled and can be tackled by all HR professionals who are non-alcohol drinkers.

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Thank you for the valuable input. Let me know if you need any further assistance.

Komal,

As you have mentioned Head-HR, the position itself carries a better importance. It also differs from company to company. A Head of HR might sometimes be given free rein on project execution and its value. A question of that nature is not negative. You should address it more effectively in relation to the position you have applied for. You could have informed them that you do not drink, or rather, that you do not have any issues with others drinking, or make statements that show you are not overly narrow-minded.

Just chill, yaar. Take it easy and wrap it up.

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I have corrected the spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors in your text while maintaining the original meaning and tone. I have also adjusted the paragraph formatting for better readability.

Yes, sir. In the corporate world nowadays, it's required to have a small glass of a drink because at parties, some seniors will insist on a drink, and your refusal may be seen as an ego issue to them. It's just how things work. Take it as medicine, but it's necessary.

Hi,

I perceive these kinds of questions to be an integral part of the typically male-dominant Indian society where working women are considered to be mere objects of desire or eye candy, and individuals who can be utilized for purposes other than work.

Pardon me for my words, but these "pseudo-intellectual morons" and "hypocritical bastards" need to be appropriately punished so that they regard all females in a more dignified and respectful manner.

I believe the biggest flaw in Indian society is the misuse of Indian working women in the workplace, and I think these issues need to be resolved promptly.

India has always been a country that respects women. However, the significant flaw in this culture is that due to this wrong attitude, India will always remain a developing, and not a developed, economy.

The only option available is to change this attitude and to understand the best options for women's liberation and correct attitude formation.

Regards,

Rohan Bhatt

Business Consultant/Trainer

Square Consulting and Management Services

Cellular Line: +919638789089

Email: squareconsultants@gmail.com

Hi all,

I do agree with Asha and Alwar. They both articulated their points well. We don't need to accept the offer directly; instead, you can proceed as Alwar suggested.

Regards,
Murali.N

First of all...

They didn't mention that you have to drink in the office.

Second of all... Why the hell don't you drink... Gimme the contact details...!

Jokes apart... I agree with Ash and Alwar.

The question that comes to mind is "who are you deep down inside? Are you willing to sell your character in order to become part of the group, or is there greener grass on the other side?

Dr. Marc
PS 63:7

Well, it sure was a shocker! But then, it was good enough that the company asked this question upfront. It is fair and good to ask whether the candidate can work amidst certain circumstances. It is quite possible that it could be a company dealing with premium branded alcoholic drinks - can be an Indian company or an MNC. It could be their requirement and compulsion!

For example, if I am a hiring manager for either Coke or Pepsi, I would not be too happy to find that the candidate does not consume aerated soft drinks (or, rather hates it). If someone is a strict vegetarian, she may not like to work in a company that produces and sells packaged/tinned meat.

Regards.

Dear Komal,

My view abt the parties:- To be frank – the basic idea behind corporate parties arranged is to develop a Rapport with your seniors, colleagues as well the Jr. level people – generally people tend to loosen up their self and start interacting with each other freely in parties – than in office – I do have attended a lot of parties till date – where the moto (as an HR) is to develop a gud network – (irrespective of me drinking or not)

Till date I have never seen som1 forcing any1 2 drink – instead if som1 comes across a situation like this – make sure u have some moktail/ orange juice in your hand – as simple as that

Ans to komal's question: -

Please do not join a co. like this which has a selection criteria of a person drinking or not – cause u never no (whts next) – this shows the culture of the organization.

Regards,

Prashant

Hi Komal,

I think it might be a stress interview. Nobody can force you to drink. You can take soft drinks to give them company. Also, you need to see if such parties and meets are frequent or not. Because, if you have/you are going to have your family, you may find it difficult to balance it. Take the decision with patience.

Take care. All the best.

Hi Komal,

I agree with Asha & Giridher. If you want to be part of big parties or groups, you need to participate in such occasions. This is my personal opinion.

Aklak Kazi
HR

Hi,

The main job of HR is to look after the company matters as well as liaisons with Statutory Authorities. Sometimes, where the money is not important, but the wine solves your problems. There is no shock for drinking.

I don't know how a company can relate HR and drinking with clients. If the job demands it, then it's not an HR job. It's more of a business development or client management role.

No way... this is kind of humiliation. It seems that boozing is a kind of degree or competency to get such jobs... ridiculous. I can't imagine if that interviewer can reject the candidate on such basis, what will be his way of working, policies for his team in future? Is the company for drinking so important? Can't we accompany such people with some soft drink.

There is a saying in Marathi "Me be ghadlo... tuhmi be ghada" which means I am already spoiled, you also get spoiled. Can we know the name of this company? Komal, you have taken the best decision by not joining them. Cheers... and best of luck for your future.

Umesh

This is also culture-related. If your company intends to kick-start any business in China, it is almost expected that the staff assigned to liaise with the Chinese counterparts must be able to drink in order to "fit in," and also drinking and karaoke are their way of conducting business.

Just like for people who will never work for a tobacco company or a casino, the decision lies in your belief system.

Autumn Jane

There is no harm in asking such a question. I think that lady was right in her place; it seems they are very professional. She was totally clear about the company's vision and mission and about the type of person they want to hire. What will happen if they hide this info until your joining? I would say, say thanks to that lady who cleared everything for you in the beginning.

There is no harm in making a policy like this; it is their way to improve their business because they are in such a business environment.

Dear Komal,

Actually, this question is surprising, but you shouldn't be shocked by it. It's better that they clarified their requirements at the beginning itself instead of bringing it to light later, which could have been a culture shock to you. Thus, now you need to be headstrong with your decision and assertively put across your views. Also, think practically - if right now they have a requirement of drinking in a social set-up, at a later stage, they may ask you for certain more compromises which would be very much in and required as per them. But can you compromise on your values for a job? Think for yourself.

Now, in this scenario, I think everybody lives in their own style, so it's not an issue that as an HR, you should take liquor. If you will be attending a party where everybody is drinking, you can politely decline and say, "I'm not comfortable with this."

I suggest to everyone that everybody should live in their own style, using their own mind and never imitate others. Make decisions based on what your conscience allows.

Dear Komal,

I carefully read your words and was a bit surprised by what the consultant has asked you. Ethically, no one should promote drinking nor ask for a drinking person in order to be picked up for a job. It doesn't sound neat at all. However, if the consultant approached you in the following manner: "The management of the company gets into many functions and parties sort of, and I wonder if it's okay with you to accept a drink offered to you as a protocol in front of other senior management staff from other companies?" See, if it was brought to you in that way, one could pass the question and reply with no doubts whatsoever. Besides that, I have been in many occasions where I met individuals from HR from several organizations around the world who simply do not drink while everyone is having their drink in hand, and it does not mean anything to us or to anyone whether that person is drinking or not. I would advise you not to pick up that job as there is something fishy about it and it does not look professional to me at all.

Best of luck, Ms. Komal

Mimas Khodr, M.D.
Misuyura Int. Trading Co.
Lebanon, India, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea

Hi, Recently, I got a call from an HR Consultant for some HR opening with one of their client companies. She asked me for a few details, but one question almost shocked me. She asked me whether I drink or not. I said no, which is a fact, but then she told me that their client had this mandatory requirement that the HR person should drink (reason: she has to be a part of many events/parties, and their clientele is of such nature). The company is among one of the most successful and reputed business houses from India. How fair is this? Can any employer actually put such condition for recruitment?

Regards, Komal

True. Guess we should look at it objectively and handle such situations. There is no point in getting emotional about this and reacting. This would typically turn out to be that one is not emotionally balanced, especially considering the kind of job we are in.

It is good to stand by our point/belief, and at the same time, it is highly important to be assertive and confident about our choices.

Hi Komal,

It is very surprising. You know, I also got a call from a consultant and they have offered me such a job. She asked me if I drink or not. I was shocked, but when I discussed it with my husband, he told me that this company treats their HR like a secretary.

After all this, I decided to go for the interview because we are working ladies, we have to face many odd situations in our lives. We should at least know what kind of company this is. I want to see to what extent they can go. I suggest that you also attend this interview and become an expert in handling such situations.

My email id is sumispj@yahoo.co.in.

Regards,
Suman

As I can say, in this world, nothing is good, as the same nothing is bad. So, it's totally dependent upon you. If you dislike it, then simply deny the offer. One more thing, if upon joining, they are asking for a drink, then you should guess what's next?

Hi Komal,

I agree 100% with Asha. You can always choose a mocktail instead of alcohol. It's always good to have at least one person sober during an outing involving alcohol. You need to determine if the interviewer was trying to test your patience or maturity level by asking you this question.

Regards,
SF

Hi Komal,

Be reasonable; maybe that company has a lot of foreign clients who drink. They were just checking your comfort levels. As you said it's a leading company, they are surely not into XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX. So, you can say that you are not a drinker, but you don't mind attending cocktails. That's it, ya, chill. Remember, broadening of vision is always required. I don't believe that an organization will reject you if you don't drink; they just check your comfort levels.

Best of luck...

Regards, Sakshi
Business Development Head
Avalon Academy

I think she is not an HR person, but she is addicted to alcohol or any other drugs.

Dev Narayan Shukla
Executive A/c

Hi Komal,

I'm a senior manager with a technical background. Believe me, I had Chivas Regal continuously for 45 days along with a sheikh from Dubai to strike a deal successfully every day during office hours. Being only a social drinker, however, my reputation got screwed up. Especially female colleagues are afraid to talk to me even after that incident.

As an HR person, especially when people take you as an example, you should refrain from this at any cost.

Regards,
Velu

On one side, we are reciting the teachings of Mahatma on prohibition, and on the other side, we are justifying the use of alcohol in the pretext of corporate behavior. Our nation's civilization is far ahead of Western society, and refusal of drinks is in line with our culture.

I do not find any logic behind mandatory drinking. If it is a culture of a particular organization or the country of its origin, they should also give importance to the cultural values of the society of this land. Drinking is not only forbidden in our society but also has a very bad effect on the health of the drinker.

We have already started accommodating Coca-Colas, pizzas, burgers, etc., in our daily life and facing their consequences; likewise, alcohol is also trying to seep in with its ugly head. Let us unitedly crush it. Any organization that insists on cultural drinking should be banned from operating in this country.

Dear,

I agree with Asha and Alwar. Due to avoiding drinking, I am also unable to attend the party and meetings on many occasions in my previous and current organizations. My boss very much likes to drink in the star hotels. I think we should make ourselves flexible because there are various fruit juices and soft drinks, etc., for sharing with our seniors. Instead of all, it would be better to avoid such circumstances.

With best regards,

Silva

In my view, it is not something that should be hurting. In recent times, I had been to Germany, and while sitting with Western colleagues there, I was the odd man out due to being a teetotaler. Perhaps the organization intends to ask this question to understand how individuals would handle the pressure of such a situation. In short, to assess adaptability.

Dear all,

Hello, I want to know about the HR monthly report. What kind of topics should be covered in the report? Is there a specific format for it? Please give me some ideas.

Regards,
Suman

Thank you, Santosh, for clarifying that this might be the condition for recruiting in many other companies. However, my concern is whether they will also expect something more by describing themselves as a rapidly growing company in the future. What if they ask for additional requirements in the future? In that case, I will resign on the very same day because I will never compromise on my values and ethics. I am a little apprehensive about taking such a risk.

Komal

Hi, Komal,

As part of today's cultural developments - to put it right - cultural changes, employees may feel comfortable and expect the HR who can also drink along with them. However, making it a qualification for getting a job is totally unfair. Companies with such requirements must be disclosed so that other prospective candidates will not depend on their goodwill.

Regards, Gopi

Hey, Asha,

A big round of applause! That was wonderful and very sensible way of putting it across. I agree with you. Now, that is one skill an HR person should possess - a diplomatic way of answering and open-mindedness.

Chandana Kadle

Hi,

Socrates was said to be a gentleman drinker. Drinking because others are doing so is the worst form of it. Tasting is different, but a company asking a candidate to be a social drinker is a debatable topic whether it is a criminal offense or a civil offense. It is all business, and HR & Admin are considered as facilitators only by all business people at the end of the day. Please choose the Government sector or Public sector where there will be no nonsense like this.

Hi,

You can hold a glass of beer in your hand and act as if you are drinking it. You have to blend in with these types of people.

Regards,

Hi Komal,

Drinking is not a bad habit. If we are providing services, then we need to build good relations with our clients. So, I think it's good that the interviewer has asked you a question, and it's up to you to go through.

😆 Chill.......

The question is about your values. Since your answer is no, then the post would not be in sync with your values. Do not become judgmental of the company.

Many Marketing/Sales departments require consistent interaction with clients who like to socialize, which in many cases means "alcoholic" beverages. While you may still socialize without imbibing such beverages, you may not be able or willing to tolerate the behavior of those who consume more than they can handle.

Finally, such a question may not be acceptable in some societies as it could lead to a discrimination suit, but I am not sure what your society allows.

Raineldo Guerrero

I fully agree with the views of other members. We have to be on our own and we must decide whether to drink or not. If our job demands taking clients for entertaining them, there is nothing wrong with having fresh juices. Foreigners are more mature in accepting and respecting individuals' wishes.

Sundararaman

I see no harm in the company bringing in such conditions upfront before the actual interview and appointment. I think it is very fair on the company's part to have such prerequisites. You should be happy that you have been informed in advance, and you can now save your time and energy for preparing for some other company.

I have met some people who do not want to entertain clients or even the staff members - the term is "Personal Ethics." These are strictly personal choices, and it is good that the company/placement came out openly.

Regards. 😊

Hi Komal,

It might be possible that she has obtained the job opening from a brewery company. Generally, these clients require candidates who can taste, share, and promote their new products. Some time ago, I received a similar call from J*W*.

Regards,
Vikram

This is my first message to the group.

My comment for this is:

In this changing environment, we should be more practical. If you say yes, maybe she said we will not consider an alcoholic person into our organization. If you said NO, then she mentioned that is also a client requirement. In such scenarios or unexpected questions or situations, you should answer cleverly like a manager, which means don't say yes or no directly. Try to manage that type of question by saying half YES and half NO. I have faced that type of questions and managed such types of questions.

Thanks, Murali

You should be 50-50 in some cases.

Can any employer actually put such a condition for recruitment? Though an employer cannot impose such conditions, it is essential to understand that this is a job requirement as outlined by them. If you do not drink, you may not be able to meet their requirements, and you may either have to resign from the job or be terminated. I believe they are justified in clearly stating the requirements from the beginning. However, I will humorously add drinking to my list of competencies! 😄

Dear Suman,

Please search CiteHR. You will find many posts about HR Monthly report a.k.a. HR MIS report. It contains, inter-alia, the following (not necessarily in the order given here):

- "New Joinings"
- "Separations by way of Resignation, Termination, Death/ Retirement etc"
- "Data on Employee Costs"
- Attrition Analysis
- IR reports
- Court Cases - status
- Man-power Planning
- Recruitment status
- Data on training & development
- Legal Compliances report, progress, schedule
- Policy /Circular issued, etc.

Do not hesitate to ask for more information if you feel the above is inadequate for your requirement.

Warm regards.

Dear Komal,

You need not feel offended. HR professionals have to deal with multiple types of situations, and in certain client meetings, a casual attitude may seem out of place. I know HR heads who carry cigarettes even though they do not smoke. It's a way to make the other person feel comfortable. Asking if you drink doesn't imply being drunk. No organization would tolerate such behavior. Having a couple of drinks can help lighten the mood and potentially navigate through challenging situations.

Regards,
KK

Dear Komal,

I am in an organization where parties are mandatory for everyone to attend. However, our rule book mentions that forcing a drink on somebody is a strict no-no.

Many times we misinterpret the thought behind a statement. In this instance, the employer could be meaning that your profile may demand you to attend functions where drinks are being served. In some sections of our society, even attending such functions (where you might not be drinking alcohol) is considered inappropriate. Another message that the employee might be wanting to give is that your attendance in such functions would be mandatory because of the post that you hold.

In my opinion, ma'am, you may reconsider your decision.

Regards,
Sanjay

In my opinion, you may reconsider the decision of joining the company. Actually, this type of practice must not be promoted.

Regards,
Shyam

Being an HR professional, we should take care of others and guide them. Even at a party, when things go wrong, we are the ones who handle the crisis and provide proper guidance; otherwise, we end up bearing unnecessary blame. Therefore, it might be wise to avoid such gatherings altogether or, if attending, opt for fruit juices or soft drinks. If we choose to consume alcohol, it's best to do so in moderation and only with close friends or family.

HR stands for Human Resources; let's not turn it into a source of high risk.

Regards,

Palaniswamy R.

Hi,

This is something that is really shocking, but we cannot deny the fact that in big corporate events, drinking has just become a trend. It's good to refuse such an offer because today they need a person who drinks, and in the future, they might demand more. There are many other corporates you can apply to, but compromising on such terms doesn't look good or safe.

Shikhar Johari
HR Executive
BKG Associates
(Dist P&G)

Here are the corrected paragraphs:

Here, the question has two aspects, viz., whether it is right on the part of the organization to desire their employees to have no aversion to drinking if required because of the organization's need. Secondly, whether a person joining an organization, who was conveyed the requirement of drinking alcohol as part of the job, should start consuming drinks.

On the organization's point of view, there is nothing wrong. The organization has every right to select a person fitting the job requirements, whether it is for specific skills, qualities, personality, or otherwise. Now, the question is whether a person wants to consume drinks for official purposes or personal reasons, which is their personal choice.

If you don't drink (hard or soft, as required), then don't join. Simple. But don't raise such silly questions. Sometimes drinking is a disqualification, and other times it is a qualification. So, don't take it to heart. This happens in the corporate world, which is not always a holy place for everybody.

There is nothing wrong in asking a candidate whether he/she drinks or not since this particular portfolio requires drinking, etc. It is good that the employer confirms it before appointment. We all know that there are people who are ready to do anything for money. It is a mad, mad world! Try to drink once in a while; it is nice. Don't you want to be equal to men?

Dear Friend,

When considering a career, two things are important: the company and your personal preferences. Never compromise on these two aspects. If you do, you will not be able to perform at your best. Choose a company where you can find a job that suits you. Remember, it is not necessary to drink in order to succeed.

Thanks

Hi Komal,

That company is Modi Group. They are located in New Friends Colony. It could be my doubt as well, but as I remember, the consultant only mentioned this name to me. I would request you not to mention my name in front of the consultant. I haven't had my interview yet, but very soon I will be having it, and I will check their level of expertise.

Regards,
Suman

Boss, you made a mistake! If she said that you should drink, it means you should ask her what type of drink she means. The reason I am saying this is because you are going to join them for HR. If you reject for that reason only, it means you are wrong, boss. If you feel it is not right to ask her, then she is also wrong. In the future, she will never ask that type of question to anyone, boss. Think positively.

Dear Ms. Komal,

Being a female, you know the answer to your question. As far as ethical views are concerned, conditional service/business/relationships shouldn't be accepted because once anyone accepts any condition, more conditions can arise.

Believe in yourself. All of us can advise you, but you have to make the final decision.

Wishes,

From-
VIJAY VASHISTH
Manager HR
+91 9717989830

Hi, Recently, I received a call from an HR Consultant regarding some HR openings with one of their client companies. She asked me a few details, but one question almost shocked me. She inquired whether I drink or not. I responded with a no, which is a fact. However, she mentioned that their client had a mandatory requirement that the HR person should drink. The reason given was that the HR professional has to be part of many events/parties, and their clientele is of such a nature. The company is one of the most successful and reputable business houses in India. How fair is this? Can any employer actually impose such a condition for recruitment?

Regards,
Komal

Hey, Thanks Suman,

One thing is not clear to me, have you given the interview or not? And, yeah, be sure about the confidentiality of your identity. Can you share your contact if possible? I want to speak to you. Write a private message with contact info if you are comfortable.

Komal

I agree with Mathew.

There are a few positions where we have to be comfortable in our own way. They may also ask you such questions to judge your intelligence. Drinking doesn't mean to drink alcohol and that too 10 - 100 pack at a time, it means to give company to the person against you.

Companies may ask for 100 things according to their requirements, but the best part is how we will meet their expectations. In order to be an active part of the discussion, drinking alcohol with the client is not the best way. If companies implement such policies, disreputability will inevitably infiltrate the HR industry in the future.

Komal, thank God you rejected it. You have saved the HR industry.

Wishing you all success.

Regards,
Daniel Prabhakar

Hi Komal,

I suppose this must be one of the many points that came up during the interview. It is really not just about drinking alcohol or not. It is about handling a situation when you, as an HR rep, are present at a party where drinks are served. As professionals, we need to handle situations and play a positive role while maintaining elegance, grace, and dignity.

This is possible.

Cheers,
PG

Hi Komal,

At least it's asked in the interview, not after joining. Be yourself, be straightforward in the future also.

Hi Komal,

Kindly check out for the fake individuals who deceive the common man by disguising themselves. I simply ask the question, which is worth asking oneself, "What does drinking or not drinking have to do with a HR job?"

Pardon me if the so-called managed organization is involved in Pron.

Therefore, my advice to people like you and many others is to always be career-oriented, where you must love doing things by choice and not by chance.

Dear Komal,

It is not mandatory that you should be part of these types of habits, which always turn your life onto another track. Your hard work, talent, and qualifications will be a part of your success, not drinking support. If any employer puts such kinds of conditions for employment, then you may predict what kind of culture will be there in the company.

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Hi, Recently I got a call from an HR Consultant for some HR opening with one of their client companies. She asked me a few details, but one question almost shocked me. She asked me whether I drink or not. I said no, which is a fact, but then she told me that their client had this mandatory requirement that the HR person should drink (reason: She has to be a part of many events/parties, and their clientele is of such nature). The company is among one of the most successful and reputed business houses in India. How fair is this? Can any employer actually put such a condition for recruitment?

Regards, Komal

Hello Komal,

I would agree with Asha, because most of the MNCs host several parties and get-togethers to impress clients. Perhaps by asking that question, they wanted to check if you were open to such a culture. If it was mandatory, you should have outrightly rejected it. However, if it was meant to check whether you were comfortable being part of such events, then maybe Asha's answer fits the situation.

Anyway, I fail to understand why a person's general habits should outweigh their experience as an HR.

If the question had been "Is it OK with you to travel outstation for work?" instead of "drinking" or "Is it OK with you for client visits, Sunday working, and shifts on a need basis?" instead of "drinking," then you would have been less shocked, wouldn't you? But these questions would have shocked the interviewee during the 1980s. It's a cultural gap, like the generation gap. And you should thank the interviewer for being candid; otherwise, you would have landed in a big mess after joining the company.

Sumeet Singh Arora
Training & Development Manager
93250 10232
sumeetarora.india@gmail.com

Dear Komal,

I think instead of taking this emotionally, you should also think of options to disallow these kinds of situations. As Asha has rightly said, you can present your view of having a non-alcoholic drink and being a part of the party or client interaction (Of course, if you are okay with it). This would have helped you in getting out of this situation, and sometimes these are the tricks of recruiters to check how open you are to these kinds of situations and how effectively you could handle it.

Regards,

Sumiksha Koul

Dear Komal,

I really don't understand why everyone is making such a fuss about it. I, in fact, think that the company is at least honest in their approach by asking this question upfront. MNC's with a huge international client base would sometimes have to entertain their clients in this manner and become one of them, which would help network better with clients. I am sure it should be a generalized question and not just specific to a lady candidate. It might be a cultural misfit for you since you do not drink, but for some lady who drinks, it might not even matter. You should just know where to draw the line.

By the way, drinking does not always mean getting sloshed. We are all professionals and know what is reasonable/unreasonable and where the line should be drawn.

Regards

Look, nobody can ever hold your hand and push you to drink or eat. It's your wish only. If you are there holding a glass of wine in your hands and pretend to drink it, that's fine and will work. Nobody will check whether you are drinking or not.

I totally agree with what Asha has commented. In fact, the HR person never asked you whether you drink alcohol, as per what you have written. You should have asked her to be specific.

Regards,
Minal

Mr. Komal,

Some of the company's top-level management is asking these kinds of questions in depth. It is ridiculous.

You are lucky, sir, for not joining that company.

Well, in my opinion, this question has been asked just to check the attitude of the person. Sometimes, in big corporate parties, your boss may tell you to drink, and it depends on you how you handle the situation. Drinking is not compulsory for HR jobs, but handling situations and dealing with people is compulsory for an HR job.

When they asked, "Do you drink?"
Why the hell do you blink?

You could have demanded grape,
Which would have kept you in good shape.

I agree with Ash and Alwar! In my previous company, we used to have Friday meetings in pubs which also had a nice business-like setting for this kind of meeting. One of my coworkers used to have just water throughout the meeting.

It's the way you interpret and deal with the situation and how you answer questions like this in an interview that differentiates you from the rest of the candidates.

Savitha.

Yes, I agree with Asha. Why has drinking become a taboo in the present scenario? Why do most of us perceive it negatively? I am not in favor of HR professionals being heavy drinkers, but they should be able to socialize in the cocktail circle. Being part of such social circles puts us in a better position to understand others. You may not be able to accurately judge a person after just ten meetings, but it is much easier in other circumstances.

Hi Komal,

You've highlighted an interesting and key issue, which I guess has not cropped up due to whatever reasons. The fact remains, as an individual, one has all the right to choose whether or not to be a teetotaler. And nobody has the authority to question it on the professional front (friends may not always spare you from coaxing though), most importantly due to professional reasons. It cannot be a criterion in one's CV!

But, the fact also remains that in social gatherings in a professional setup, people connect faster and better when they share a drink or two. This is important from an HR perspective too. Now, this is where attitude comes into the picture. Even without having a drink, one can be free, comfortable, and make the other person comfortable with a little extra effort. One can have a fresh lime, juice, or a soft drink while networking with people who are having alcohol. In a large gathering, people will not be able to tell that one is not having an alcoholic beverage. In a small gathering, one has to make that extra effort to break the ice. Having a drink is not the objective; communicating and connecting with people is! Just imagine if drinking is the criterion, and the HR guy gets drunk, sozzled, and ends up on the floor, what will be the reaction? A little bit of the 'art of disguise', smart communication skill, is what a teetotaler needs in these situations! :) Enjoy!

The company would be more interested in your participation in the party or gathering rather than drinking. In our company get-together, even females drink. There are many males who don't drink. This is not a big issue. Though it is an unusual question, it could have been easily handled.

Komal, a little bit surprised, but nowadays most of the corporates arrange parties, events, and many more. However, everything depends on you, and since you are not a drinker, take it easy. If the company is really good, the salary meets your demands, and growth is essential. If all of these aspects are good, you can join without worry, my friend. All the best...

Hi,

On the flip side, maybe they asked the question wrongly? Maybe the job entailed entertaining others and wanting to know whether you are fit for being a hostess/representing the company at such parties or not?

I know many people who entertain though they do not touch alcohol or non-veg too. Yet, they are successful in keeping the guests busy with a smatter of small talk and never attracting attention to themselves. We usually see pictures of people holding glasses of liquid with a napkin around it. These could be people who do not drink and do not want to show off they are drinking water/soda.

If the income and other service parameters are good, it would be worth taking a chance. After all, we have stepped out into the world. Should we not be brave enough to face what comes?

Think it over. Take care.

Regards