Happy hour, a beloved time of day when work ends and the drinks are cheap, is much-anticipated for many hardworking people. But if you’re catching up with colleagues at your local bar, there are a few points of etiquette you should always follow to keep happy hour fun for everyone. Next time you go out for a drink with the team, keep these tips in mind.

Your Guide to Happy Hour

1. Connect With Your Workmates

Sharing a drink with your colleagues could significantly help your professional life. Even if you’re not a fan of after-hours events in general, participating in occasional work-related events will show your associates that you’re an approachable team-player, which will make them feel more at ease around you.

2. Keep It Professional

While happy hour is definitely a time to let down your hair a little, don’t relax as much as you would if you were with close friends. Drinking with work colleagues and supervisors is essentially “work lite,” and will still influence your professional life. Use this time to make a good impression and avoid sensitive topics, such as religion or politics.

3. Always Be Holding a Drink (But It Doesn’t Have to be Alcoholic)

Not everyone likes to drink alcohol during the week. This is completely understandable—but don’t think that it means you have to skip happy hour or similar inter-office events; simply order a non-alcoholic beverage at the bar, like soda, water, or juice. Not holding a beverage at all will make others feel awkward or give the impression that you’re in a rush.

4. Drink Responsibly

Don’t go to happy hour on an empty stomach, and don’t treat the evening as though it’s a Saturday night. Keep to just one or two alcoholic drinks, and drink plenty of water. Drink slowly and pace yourself so that you stay sharp.

5. Avoid Gossip

Poking fun at co-workers has its time and place, but happy hour with other colleagues is not one of them. What you say after-hours may be remembered or repeated during office hours, and you don’t want it to hurt someone. Keep the conversation light and don’t say anything negative about colleagues or management.

Looking for a fun place for happy hour drinks? If you work in Gulf Shores, AL, stop into Papa Rocco’s for cheap drinks, pizza, and oysters. They serve food until closing and host live music every night, so you’ll be sure to have a great time, whether you come with friends or co-workers. Call (251) 948-7262 for questions, or browse their menu online. To see upcoming events, follow them on Facebook.