During my seminars I often cite a light-hearted principle of never underestimating the value of beer. Of course, some of the attendees think drinking beer while writing code would be a wonderful practice. But the real principle is to get to know people as people.
It is somewhat amusing when you consider it. The stereotypical software person is the introverted geek. But software development is driven by people and so it can be thought of as a social event. Once you get to know the players as real people, you’ll be surprised how much you can accomplish.
So take the time to go out with your coworkers, your peers, and even that old grinch. You don’t like beer – that’s sad, but ok. Just go for lunch, have a latte or cup of tea, whatever. It is amazing what happens when you share food together. The inevitable conflicts may not disappear, but they will get resolved much quicker.
Perhaps, I ponder, that’s why breaking bread together is part of almost every major religion. But then again, perhaps I ponder too much.