Fajitas-The next step in inter-office politics?
So, I don’t often digress from the daily ins and outs of the marketing industry, but I had to share something that’s close enough to the topic of inter-office relations I think we’ll manage to sneak it through. (Wait, did you just read that with a straight face? Good for you!)
Last week marked the birthday of a member of our staff and, as a result, the mysterious appearance of office pizza. Now, no one’s denying that we had a great time toasting the birthday girl’s life, health and happiness, but it did get me thinking. Throughout history food has played an integral role in the way we relate to the people around us. With that in mind, isn’t it possible that food could be as influential in the office as it is in our kitchens?
In case you were wondering, yes, I DO expect to be crowned “King of the Lab” for managing to make a philosophical discussion out of pizza.
Ice Cream and International Relations
Even after you consider the traditional power lunch and client dinner, the US remains one of the few countries that doesn’t intimately acquaint its food with its business dealings. If you were to travel to the Far East business likely wouldn’t be conducted at all until the two of you had shared a meal-at least, not at any pace that’s going to make you happy!
What is it about sharing food that forges a bond of trust between us and the people around us? Is it the sharing of sustenance, knowing we’re working together for the common good? Maybe it’s that eating is something we associate almost exclusively with friends and family.
Or it could be as simple as the fact that it’s impossible to remain dignified and aloof when your fajitas streak grease and guacamole down your arm and all over the table.
Welcome to the Dark Side. We Have Cookies.
Whatever biological or emotional imperative drives us to bond with the people sharing our food, you’ve been handed an excellent opportunity to build a rapport with your fellow office mates. Bring muffins and coffee to your next breakfast meeting, or pick up cookies on your way back from your lunch break. Employers, schedule a pot-luck for your next holiday celebration.
In front of souvlaki, no one’s a stranger.