How to use a business lunch to your advantage
There’s no such thing as a free lunch - or any other meal for that matter, so be prepared to pay in some way. Whether you’re the guest or the host, mealtime meetings are the business of doing business. And with today’s hectic schedules and work loads, combined meetings and mealtimes can be productive and enjoyable. All you need to do is choose the type of meeting that will deliver the outcomes you want. Here’s what’s required to get the most from your next mealtime meeting...
1. Plan your meeting carefully.
Mealtime meetings must achieve the results you’re looking for - in furthering business relationships and social contacts, or improving your business. Without a plan, the meeting might become little more than a social get-together. If you’re the guest, think about the likely reasons for the invitation; but set your goals anyway. If you think the meeting may go over time, and you don’t want to be delayed unnecessarily, plan your exit in advance - perhaps have a colleague phone you at a predetermined time.
2. Create the right impressions.
If it’s an important meeting and you are the host, make contact with the restaurant beforehand. Find out the name of the waiter who will be responsible for your table. Introduce yourself and explain the importance of the meeting and that you will be settling the account. Tell the waiter how you would like to be addressed and provide some general details about your guest or guests that will assist positive recognition. If necessary, discuss special meals and seating arrangements. You may consider offering to pay an additional amount, say 10 per cent, for very personal attention. This planning will create the atmosphere of a ‘club’ of which you are a valued patron.
3. Dine - to your advantage.
The meeting must make the best use of everyone’s time. If the invitee is reluctant to have a business lunch, provide some options - breakfast, dinner, coffee. Perhaps the other person may prefer a brief office meeting with lunch being brought in. If you’re the host (or guest), try to suggest the time and place for the meeting that best suits your purpose.
