Very valid, though I have seen very capable, experienced and respected pilots pissed out of their minds wandering through bars and "lessor respected establishments" but that says nothing of their flying or influenced how that person flys to their peers or boss.
I'm sure an operator doesn't care what goes down a pilots mouth at night (provided he can do his job safely and capably) but more what comes out of it...
Personality does play a huge role, the ability to have a beer and not talk about how your company should be run is taken seriously.
Otherwise I feel have a beer with some great people in a great place and enjoy yourself. Just don't bring your work to a bar.