As schedules become more hectic, the business lunch continues to grow in popularity. Make sure to do things right when meeting over lunch with a prospective client or important associate. The last thing you want is for your encounter to be the final one.
Avoid extravagance. Pick a quality restaurant noted for its good food and reliable services.
Book a table that is in a quiet corner where business can be discussed without too many noisy disturbances.
Leave instructions at the counter to usher in your guests to your table.
You need to stand up when someone arrives and wait for them to be seated before you sit down.
If the client has a cocktail, follow his lead. If they order alcohol, you can too, but limit your drinks to one or two light ones. If they don't drink, you don't.
The most important people are the ones sitting in front of you. Remember to turn off all cell phones. If you answer a phone call and discuss other business in front of them, the meeting may be over before it began.
Order with care: Ignore your craving for the barbecue pork sandwich or any other potentially messy dish. By sticking to easy-to-eat items, you’ll save yourself the embarrassment of sauce dripping down your shirt. Also, don’t order the most pricey entrée if you’re not paying, and follow the lead of your host when it comes to appetizers, desserts and other extras.
Avoid extravagance. Pick a quality restaurant noted for its good food and reliable services.
Book a table that is in a quiet corner where business can be discussed without too many noisy disturbances.
Leave instructions at the counter to usher in your guests to your table.
You need to stand up when someone arrives and wait for them to be seated before you sit down.
If the client has a cocktail, follow his lead. If they order alcohol, you can too, but limit your drinks to one or two light ones. If they don't drink, you don't.
The most important people are the ones sitting in front of you. Remember to turn off all cell phones. If you answer a phone call and discuss other business in front of them, the meeting may be over before it began.
Order with care: Ignore your craving for the barbecue pork sandwich or any other potentially messy dish. By sticking to easy-to-eat items, you’ll save yourself the embarrassment of sauce dripping down your shirt. Also, don’t order the most pricey entrée if you’re not paying, and follow the lead of your host when it comes to appetizers, desserts and other extras.
