The rise of virtual get-togethers! After-work drinks guide during self-isolation

You might not be able to see your mates during self-isolation but that doesn’t mean Friday night drinks are off. This is how you can still catch up with the crew virtually.

From where I’m standing, or rather, sitting on my couch, it’s been a long time between knock-off drinks.

It’s true for everyone — even for those of us who enjoyed a catch up-last Friday night via technology (more about that in a minute).

Maybe you’ve avoided going out with workmates since the 1990s because you always had somewhere else to be. Or perhaps Facebook messages have gradually replaced face-to-face contact with friends.

But, there’s no excuse not to be social at a virtual Friday night get-together anymore. It’s not like any of us are going anywhere and right now we could all benefit from a little company.

So here’s how to get your hibernation party started.

GET APPY

If your work videoconferencing system is good, fine. If not, ask all your guests to use a video chatting app such as Houseparty which is free to download on Apple iOS/Google Android smartphones. Houseparty allows you to see everyone on the call at the same time and when you’re in a “room” together you can even play games with up to eight people such as Trivia. It’s also easy to find or invite friends to your do because you can link your Houseparty account to your phone contacts and social media accounts. But gatecrashers are also a thing, so make sure you use the padlock button at the bottom of the screen to keep unwanted guests out.

A rose a day!

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FANCY THAT

If tracky dacks have become your new uniform, a virtual catch-up is an opportunity to get all dressed up with nowhere to go — in a good way. Why not have a theme night such as 1980s fashion or ask each of your guests to come as a character from that eighties’ cult classic The Breakfast Club. It’s a great way to discover hidden treasures in your wardrobe and give it a Marie Kondo “does this spark joy” clear-out at the same time.

LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION

Set the scene by finding a comfortable chair to sit in with a plain wall as your backdrop … or a bookcase if you’re doing The Breakfast Club thing where Molly, Judd & Co. were all trapped in the library on detention. This is also your chance to be seen in your best light if you’re meeting with colleagues, because, as we all know, office fluoros do nothing for anyone’s complexion. Fun fact: An LED light is flattering, but if you own a pink lampshade use it. It will make sure you look your best the later the night goes on and who doesn’t want everyone to see them through rose-coloured glasses?

CHAT-UP LINE

No, not that sort. Some people might find the process a bit awkward at first, so consider giving everyone an icebreaker line to talk about — from the solid, if unimaginative “what I’m watching this week” to sharing the best lesson they learned about iso-life in the past few days.

LAST DRINKS

Ask your other half or flatmate to be your waiter so you don’t need to keep leaving the room. Live alone? Bring your Esky. If you’re lucky enough to have someone topping up your glass make a pact with them that they will practice responsible alcohol service and cut you off before you’ve had even one sip too many. It’s important to keep yourself nice, especially if you’re mixing with workmates or potential future employers.

OPEN INVITATION

Look out for each other. If you sense someone at your get-together might be struggling make sure you follow up by sending them a private message. Let them know that your virtual door is always open to them and that you’re available to have a one-on-one video chat or phone call with them at anytime.