The pub: an expanded office. A qualitative study on Norwegian female employees’ experiences with English work-related drinking culture

Abstract

Aim The aim of this study is to explore how Norwegian female employees experience work-related alcohol use in British working life using cultural analysis. Design Explorative design with strategic population; in-depth interviews with eight female Norwegian employees working in London, in addition to field observation in two typical ‘after-work’ pubs in London. The data was analysed through bricolage: themes and subthemes were identified and Hall’s theory of high- and low-context cultures and Bourdieu’s concepts of capital and field were applied. Results The pub appeared to be a significant arena for Norwegian female employees in London to adapt to British working culture and work-related drinking. Four main themes emerged: (1) Breaking the code in communication at work, (2) Adjusting to English office ‘etiquette’ through pub visits, (3) Adhering to pub rules and developing strategies, and (4) Balancing after-work pub culture and family obligations. Conclusion Navigating British pub culture demands cultural awareness to maintain one’s work-related position and career progress, including balancing gender-specific expectations and contextual drinking culture.