In both social and professional settings, it’s important to find the right words to express yourself clearly and maintain a level of professionalism. When it comes to discussing informal meetups or spending time together outside of work, it can be tricky to strike the right balance. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore various ways to convey the idea of “hanging out” professionally. We’ll cover both formal and informal expressions, providing tips, examples, and even addressing regional variations when necessary.
Table of Contents
Formal Expressions
1. “Have a meeting outside of the office” – This expression implies discussing business matters in a more relaxed setting. It suggests exchanging ideas and collaborating while enjoying a change of environment.
Example: “I believe it would be beneficial for us to have a meeting outside of the office. It would provide the opportunity for more creative brainstorming and team-building.”
2. “Attend a professional social event” – This phrase indicates attending a social gathering that is organized with a professional purpose, such as a networking event, conference, or business luncheon.
Example: “Let’s attend the upcoming professional social event. It will provide valuable opportunities to connect with potential clients and expand our professional network.”
3. “Arrange a professional get-together” – This expression emphasizes organizing a structured and regulated meetup for professional purposes. It’s more formal and can be used when planning team-building activities or professional outings.
Example: “We should arrange a professional get-together to enhance team cohesion and collaboration. It could involve team-building activities followed by an informal dinner.”
Informal Expressions
1. “Grab a coffee/lunch together” – This is a casual way to suggest spending time together outside of work. It implies a more relaxed and friendly environment.
Example: “We should grab a coffee together sometime. It would be great to discuss our projects in a more informal setting.”
2. “Hang out after work” – This simple and direct expression suggests spending time together casually without explicitly mentioning work-related topics.
Example: “We should hang out after work one of these days. It’ll be nice to get to know each other better outside of the office.”
3. “Let’s catch up outside of work” – Use this phrase when you want to reconnect with a colleague outside of the professional environment.
Example: “It’s been a while since we caught up. Let’s grab a quick lunch and catch up outside of work.”
Tips for Professional Hangouts
- Choose the right setting: Consider selecting a location that is suitable for both professional discussions and a relaxed atmosphere. This can help ensure a productive and enjoyable hangout.
- Set clear objectives: Clarify the goals of the hangout to avoid any misunderstandings. Whether it’s team bonding or discussing specific projects, clearly communicate the purpose and expectations.
- Maintain professionalism: Even in informal settings, it’s important to maintain a level of professionalism. Avoid discussing sensitive topics or engaging in unprofessional behavior.
- Be respectful of time: Respect everyone’s schedules by planning the hangout well in advance. Ensure that the chosen time is convenient for all participants, considering their work commitments and personal lives.
- Follow up: After the hangout, send a follow-up email to express gratitude for the opportunity to hang out professionally. If any actions or agreements were made during the discussion, summarize them in the email for clarity.
Pro Tip: When arranging a professional hangout, it can be helpful to provide a few options for dates, times, and locations. This creates flexibility and allows attendees to choose what works best for them.
Keep in mind that regional variations may exist when it comes to expressing “hanging out” professionally. It’s always beneficial to adapt your language based on the cultural norms and preferences of your specific region. Remember, finding the right balance between professionalism and informality is key in these situations. By using the expressions and tips outlined in this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to suggest hanging out professionally in any social or professional context!
