Despite all the latest developments in communication technologies, the lunch meeting remains an important tool for building a business relationship. If you want to improve the effectiveness of your business lunches, and also enjoy them more, consider the following advice from business website Inc.com.
Be guided by the preferences of your invited guest
Meetings over lunch promise a more relaxed and open atmosphere than those in a traditional office setting. However, always make sure your invitation is tailored to suit the person you are inviting. Respect his time and position. If, for example, your intended guest holds a senior position and you don’t know him well, it might be advisable to suggest a coffee initially. Allow your guest to choose the place. Make a few suggestions, but leave it up to him to decide. Even if in the end he leaves the choice to you, make sure you select a place that is appropriate. In short, don’t take a vegetarian to a restaurant that serves only meat, and meetings to discuss budget cuts are best not conducted in an expensive restaurant.
Don’t talk business straight away
Arrive at the chosen venue first so that you can take in the layout and environment. Select a table most suitable for your purposes. Before sitting down turn off your mobile and put it away so that it does not disturb you during your discussions. Even though your meeting concerns business, start first with small talk. Don’t move onto business until your drinks have been served and you have ordered your food. Don’t centre the discussion on yourself, but rather on your guest and his requirements. You probably shouldn’t order an alcoholic drink. However, if your guest shows interest in drinking something with a bit more bite, they should feel free to order a drink of their choice.
Enjoy the meal and pick up the bill
Throughout a business lunch bear in mind that you have an exceptional opportunity to build a relationship in less formal surroundings. Of course you are there because of work, but you should also know how to relax. Your business partners will remember a pleasant lunch spent with you much more positively than a formal email or a phone call offering a business opportunity.
You should of course take care of the bill. Settle the bill in as discreet a way as possible so as not to make your guest feel uncomfortable. For example, if there is something on the bill you don’t agree with, don’t try and resolve it at the table. Excuse yourself and go to one side with the waiter.
-kk-