Attending a business lunch? Read this!
What's the story
Navigating a business lunch can be tricky, but it's important to know the dos and don'ts to make a good impression. This includes choosing the right attire, reaching on time, watching your table manners, making appropriate conversation, and picking up the tab gracefully. These tips are essential to conduct yourself well, and leave a lasting impression on your colleagues or clients.
Attire 1
Dress appropriately for the occasion
Choosing the right attire for a business lunch is imperative. Go for professional clothes that match with the company's culture and the meeting's formality. For men, this could be a suit or smart casual wear, while women could wear a blouse with tailored pants or a suitable dress. Avoid too casual outfits such as jeans or sneakers unless your host explicitly says otherwise.
Timing 1
Arrive on time
Punctuality is the key to the door of success, and it applies to business lunches too. When you arrive on time, it reflects that you respect others' timings and sets a positive tone for the meeting. Try to reach ten minutes early at least, so you have a buffer for unforeseen delays like traffic or looking for parking. In case you are late due to unavoidable reasons, let your host know ASAP.
Etiquette 1
Mind your table manners
Proper table manners are a must at business lunches. Start eating only after everyone has been served and follow basic dining etiquette like using utensils properly and not speaking with food in your mouth. Keep elbows off the table and refrain from reaching across others when passing things around; instead, politely ask someone nearby to pass them along.
Conversation 1
Engage in appropriate conversation
The conversation during a business lunch should remain professional yet engaging without veering into controversial topics such as politics or religion, which could lead to discomfort among attendees. Instead, focus on neutral subjects related directly towards work projects, shared interests, industry trends, etcetera, ensuring all participants feel included throughout discussions taking place around the table setting itself. Thereby, fostering stronger connections between parties involved.
Payment 1
Handle payment gracefully
When it's time to settle the bill, deal with it tactfully and professionally. Usually, the one who invited pays the bills. If in doubt, ask in advance to avoid awkwardness. Otherwise, offer to share a part of the cost, especially in group hangouts where the check is split. This way, everyone is fine with the arrangement before heading out, avoiding any confusion.