Let's talk about alcohol at work, with Tabbin Almond

Rethinking workplace culture

In episode 11 of The Big Drink Rethink podcast I talk with Tabbin Almond, an alcohol coach, with a keen focus on  how we perceive alcohol in the workplace. With her upcoming book, Bottling Up Trouble, Tabbin is shining a light on the hidden impacts of alcohol on business and providing actionable steps for change. 

Creating a stigma-free workplace

Alcohol culture in the office is more than just the occasional happy hour. It affects daily productivity, employee well-being and, ultimately, the company's bottom line. However, one of the greatest hurdles we discussed together is the persistent stigma around alcohol use disorder. Fear of judgement and career repercussions often silence those who need support the most. 

During our conversation, Tabbin recalled a poignant story about someone too afraid to approach their employer or HR for help. This is clearly not a solitary case; it's a reflection of a common workplace culture that needs to transform. We need to build environments where individuals can openly seek help. Where leadership is not just about driving profit but also about demonstrating care and understanding.

Understanding the ripple effects of alcohol

The impact of alcohol on business leaders and the workplace environment cannot be overstated. Alcohol-related absenteeism and presenteeism are not just buzzwords; they encapsulate the significant toll on productivity and well-being. Coming to work with a hangover isn’t just bad for the individual, it's a drawback for the entire team.

Excessive drinking can diminish one's ambition, motivation, energy and drive. This lays the groundwork for strained workplace relationships and missed opportunities, with repercussions across the career span. My discussion with Tabbin underscored the need for strategies that support those trying to avoid alcohol in professional settings.

Promoting inclusivity and tolerance

Both Tabbin and I are optimistic about the future, particularly with younger generations showing more comfort with sobriety. However, the pressure to participate in drinking can still lead to isolation and career limitations. It's crucial for businesses to foster a culture of tolerance towards non-drinkers and to ensure opportunities and social interaction are not contingent on alcohol consumption.

On the matter of inclusivity, Tabbin spelled out the challenges that non-drinkers face, citing personal anecdotes and broader trends. While some organisations are slowly making strides like reimagining annual gatherings, the vast majority remain locked in practices that often exclude those who don’t drink, for whatever reason. 

Nurturing safe drinking environments

It's not enough to only offer non-alcoholic options at corporate events or to rely on the outdated token system to moderate drinking. We need to re-imagine our approach to work-related socialising and client entertainment altogether. 

Creating safe drinking environments goes beyond catering options and deeply into the realm of alcohol education within workplace well-being programmes. Education can preempt issues, enabling employees to make informed decisions and promoting early intervention when necessary.

This episode with Tabbin Almond is a call to action for managers and business leaders to take charge in reshaping the corporate drinking culture. We are the architects of our workplaces and it is up to us to champion a culture that prioritises mental health and well-being over a round of beers.

Join the conversation by sharing your thoughts on this episode. Don’t forget to leave a review and visit my website for additional resources on creating a healthier drinking culture in your workspace. You can listen to the full episode here.