Many employees go to the office only for work, not to socialize.

This story is about an employee whose manager emailed him about a company team building dinner after work.

He didn’t want to go, but the email said it was mandatory.

He believes his work ends at 5 pm, and the company shouldn’t force him and his coworkers to stay longer than necessary.

Do you agree with OP’s point? Read the full story below.

My boss is making us go to after-hours team building and I don’t want to go

I just got an email from my manager.

He was saying we all have to attend a team dinner this Friday after work.

It’s not optional, and he said skipping it would make me look uncooperative.

This employee hates going to after-work events.

I already have personal plans that I can’t reschedule.

I also hate these forced after-work events.

My job ends at 5 PM.

I don’t get extra pay or overtime for staying late for company activities.

Even some of his coworkers feel pressured to go.

I’m worried if I say no, my manager will hold it against me later.

A few coworkers already said they feel pressured to go even though they don’t want to.

Is there a polite way to decline without hurting my reputation at work?

Has anyone dealt with this before?

Employees also have a personal life, you know?

Let’s look at the comments from other online users below.

Here’s some good advice.

Another personal thought.

Here’s a short but honest opinion.

Not the best solution, but it might work!

Indeed, right?

After-work company events shouldn’t be mandatory… only optional.