Drinking at work is bad, so why do it? Examining the work-related drinking behaviour of Australian early-career corporate professionals

This qualitative study explored drinking behaviour of early-career Australian corporate professionals. A phenomenological approach was taken, using critical incident technique to collect data and thematic analysis to identify outcomes. Participants were asked about experiences drinking in the workplace. Thematic analysis revealed perceived advantages of work-related drinking, such as the enhancement of relationships, celebration and reward, relaxation and stress relief and knowledge-sharing. The perceived disadvantages were engaging in unsafe behaviour, relationship and reputation damage and the isolation of non-socialisers. Engaging in self-regulatory harm minimisation strategies mitigated risks to overconsumption. Organisational drinking culture supporting moderate drinking and non-work reasons to abstain were also identified as harm minimisers. Lastly, participants identified those organisations that provided work-related drinking opportunities signified financial success. This study provides new understanding of whether and why early-career Australian corporate professionals engage in work-related drinking, despite negative effects, and may assist in more effective, credible health promotion and harm prevention.