8 T I P S FO R A S U C C E S S F U L B U S I N E S S LU N C H

However, beware of the differences between a business and a informal lunch with friends. Here are some tips about what to do and what not to do during a business lunch.

Meetings don’t happen only inside the traditional meeting room. Business lunches are a great opportunity to discuss and close deals. The more relaxing setting and a tasty meal are a good combination for success.

If you’re inviting, offer up some suggestions and let your guests pick. If they don’t have an opinion then it’s up to you. But be careful and try to anticipate their preferences. You don’t want to bring a vegetarian to a steakhouse, for exemple. If your guests chose the place, don’t forget to compliment them on the choice.

WHO CHOOSES THE RESTAURANT?

Now is not the time to be checking incoming email or texting your colleagues. Just don’t.

Focus on your lunch.

TURN OFF YOUR PHONE

If you arrive to the restaurant first, wait for your guests to arrive before going to your table. Sitting down first will make it harder for your guests to find you.

DON’T SEAT FIRST

Let your guests order first. Then, when you order, skip both the most expensive and the cheapest items on the menu, to avoid signalling to your guests that you’re focused on

the price tag and they might feel uncomfortable with their own selections.

ORDER THE SAME DISH

If you’re having a social conversation, don’t bring up business until you have received your drinks and ordered your meals. Then, when business talk starts, frame the

conversation around your guests’ business before jumping in.

WHEN TO START TALKING ABOUT BUSINESS?

Remember what your mother taught you: bring your food to your mouth, not vice-versa; use your salad fork for the salad, and tilt the soup bowl away from you. Manners

will always give a good impression.

MIND YOUR MANNERS

If you’re the one who arranged the meeting, then you’re the host, and you need to act that way by handling the bill, but making sure your guest is comfortable.

PICK UP THE CHECK

Be yourself! There is a reason you’re not in the office. At lunch people can relax and have a good time, and they’re more likely to open up, making it easier to strengthen

a business relationship.

HAVE FUN

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If you have your own pick-me-up tips, share them with us!