Job Interviews: 6 tips for success when alcohol might be involved

The University Career + Internship Fair  is happening February 18–21, 2025. It's an excellent opportunity to connect with employers and showcase your unique skills and talents. 

As you meet with your career coach to perfect your résumé, refine your elevator pitch, and pick out the perfect tie or power suit, there’s one additional piece of advice to keep in mind: navigating networking events, interviews or other social events where alcohol may be involved. 

While alcohol is not always a part of networking or social events and may not be a part of the interview, it may still happen occasionally. 

Here are six important tips to ensure you make a positive impression and stay at your best in these settings.
 

1. Remember...

   All interactions with employees, social and professional, can have an impact on your future. Your behavior, demeanor, and professionalism matter just as much as they would in a formal interview. 
    

2. Lunch Interviews: Skip the Alcohol

    If you’re attending a lunch meeting and others are ordering drinks, it’s best to decline any alcoholic beverages. This is especially important if you have additional interviews later in the day, as alcohol can impair focus and judgment. 
    

3. Dinner Interviews: Moderation is Key

   For evening or dinner interviews, you can choose to not drink or limit yourself to a maximum of two drinks, spaced out with water or non-alcoholic beverages. Stick to beer or wine, as cocktails can sometimes give the impression of overindulgence. 

   You can also request a non-alcoholic drink that may fit the environment, such as soda with a lime twist or a non-alcoholic beer or cider. 
    

4. Networking Events

   There is a lot to navigate at a networking event – gathering business cards, eating appetizers, moving throughout a room, and considering what to drink. 

   Alcohol can add complexity to this situation. Again, moderation is key. You can choose to not drink or order a mocktail if you think that will help you fit in. 

   If you choose to drink, limit yourself to a maximum of two drinks. If the event is shorter than two hours, have less to drink. If it is longer, space out the drinks with water or non-alcoholic beverages. 
    

5. Mind Your Manners

   How you treat waitstaff speaks volumes about your character. Employers often observe how you interact with those serving you to gauge how you might treat colleagues, clients, or others in your professional role. 
    

6. Evaluate the Team’s Culture

   These events are also an opportunity for you to assess whether you’re a good fit for the team. Observe their behavior and interactions during the meal. Do they handle themselves professionally? Would you feel comfortable working in their environment?  If alcohol is consumed, does it raise any red flags about the organization?  

   Remember, interviews are a two-way street—you’re judging their culture just as they are evaluating your fit. 

Final Thoughts 

Social events and interviews can offer valuable insight into a potential employer’s work culture and expectations. By staying professional, maintaining moderation, and observing the team dynamics, you can navigate these situations confidently and set yourself up for success. 

Good luck to all Huskers as you take this exciting next step in your careers. 
 

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Want an Alcohol and Other Drugs presentation or program for your RSO, chapter, or group? Connect with Jon Gayer, assistant director for alcohol and drug education, at jgayer3@unl.edu and 402-472-2583.