Is it anti-social to not go out with the people you work with like a Christmas party?
Asked by Edward
The people I work with like to go out and have many social gatherings. The bar after work, pool parties, parties and so on. If your invited you should always go? I'm not really a party person but I should go anyway even if I don't really want to? I absolutely love where I work and all the people, I'm just not outgoing like most of them. It's also a small company like around 25 employees, thoughts?

Best Answer:
If I'm in that situation I make an appearance and stay for one drink to show I don't have a problem with people and then just make my excuses and leave.

you dont have to go
Answered by skcs11

You should go. 1) it might help you become more outgoiing/social 2) its a good way to become closer to the people at your company, learn more about them and this can help improve your position at your company 3) you get way better information from people when they are drunk at the christmas party then when they are sober, so its a good time get some dirt or some much needed info. you dont need to go to all of them but you should go to some
Answered by Benjamin E

A lot of people like to keep their work and private lives separate. If there is someone of the group that you are closer to than others, especially if they are a leader in the group, talk to them privately about your hesitation to go out with them all the time. Explain that it is nothing personal, you just aren't the party type, but that you appreciate being invited. Accept their invitations once in a while, if just for appearances. This could cause some backlash to you in the office, but your personal life is yours to do with as you wish.
Answered by Brian G

You should go even if you stay for only an hour. People tend to notice the person who never joins them for social events. It will make you seem standoffish, not a team player. That's not a good thing if you want to get ahead in your company. It's not just your peers who will take notice. Your boss will notice too. Drop in, mingle a bit, eat, don't get drunk or act wild, leave discreetly and you will be none the worse.
Answered by bombastic

There is nothing wrong not going out with people from work. One thing is that it does help to know people. By knowing the people you work with, the whole team can become more effective. Everyone has a work and personal face. You don't have to open up to everyone and be friend with everyone, but it doesn't hurt to make appearances. If you are shy, that is OK, just go for a little bit. You will begin to feel more comfortable as you get to know others. Plus, knowing your co-workers some will being the social networking of people completely outside of work. This not only gives you more friends, but can help you professionally. You don't have to go to everyone of them. If you are shy, you could also do something at your place where you feel more comfortable. You could invite only a few people to get to know them and then move on from there.
Answered by amland1