Round-buying.
You meet your colleagues at a bar to celebrate “Kiss-Ass-Kathy’s” promotion. Kathy suddenly proclaims she’s buying a round of drinks (that her subsequent raise can afford) and everyone remains in a festive mood, as if the obligation of covering other rounds is the last thing on their minds. You, on the other hand, think, “Great, thanks ‘Kiss-Ass’ for putting my back against the wall.”

How to deal: Always be prepared for round-buying before committing to a night on the town. Students and other strapped-for-cash groups tend to agree to buy their own drinks, but as a member of the professional world, you can expect someone to initiate the ritual of round-buying. Keep in mind that while people may seem like they’re not paying attention, they’re really keeping tabs on who’s picking up the rounds, so you definitely don’t want to be a round-dodger.

Dr. Frankel says: “About the only way to make sure it doesn't happen ahead of time is to clarify it's a ‘Dutch treat’ evening. But even then, after a few drinks, someone will often become magnanimous and buy a round. The way to handle this is to say, ‘Thank you so much for your generosity. I wish I could repay it, but right now that's impossible.’ Just be direct and honest.”

Remember, you’re supposed to have fun with your friends—that’s why you made them in the first place. So don’t stress when the birthday e-vites roll around, just follow our advice and kiss those awkward money situations goodbye.


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