We all have that one coworker who is always asking to hang out after work. Typically, he’s a younger guy, clean cut, good-looking, actually really funny; but for whatever reason he spends half of his working hours trying to befriend you. You already spend 8 hours a day dealing with this guy’s crap at work. Why would you want to spend even more time with him during your precious time off?
The problem is, it’s hard to say no. You don’t want to hurt your coworker's feelings (because then you risk him no longer doing your job along with his job), But you need to set a clear boundary, a boundary that begins at 5:01 PM each and every work day.
Today’s blog is to teach YOU techniques on how to say NO to your annoying coworker’s invitations. (Through numerous first-hand encounters, I’ve become an expert on this topic.)
Tip #1: Have a kid
Having a kid is hands down the most effective way to get out of evening activities with your coworker(s). It’s not the most cost-effective solution, but has the highest success rate of getting you out of Thursday Night Wings & Beers
Tip #2 Throw your kid a birthday party
This one is a bit trickier because it requires more precise timing, ideally on your kid’s actual birthday. But the odds are your coworker has no idea when your kid’s real birthday is, so you can use this tip at any time during the year with good success.
Tip #3: Have another kid
Again, not the most cost-effective solution. But it works.
Tip #4: Tear your Achilles
This one is tough because it puts you on the couch for several months. But if you’re stuck on the couch, it means you’re not stuck with your coworker.
Tip #5: Develop an addiction to triathlons
The easiest way to avoid 4-hour golf rounds is to sign up for a 5-hour triathlons. This one has the added bonus of consuming your entire free time for the months leading up to the race, so you will have plenty of chances to say “can’t hang out, I am training for my triathlon”
Tip #6: more injuries
Tip #7: Move states
This one only works if you are willing to quit your job and find a new job. But I have seen this one successfully pulled off, so don't count it out.
Tip #8: flee the states entirely
At this point you might be thinking to yourself, these tips and techniques are so unrealistic, there’s no way these excuses work. But believe it or not, these are proven methods that have been used in real life to avoid hanging out with your coworker.
You might also be thinking, "hey why are your texts the one in blue?" I never said I was the one saying no; I just said I had first hand experience
