A great way to pitch a client or get to know a customer is by having a business lunch. This is a good way to meet with them in an informal setting and still conduct business. While there are advantages to meeting outside the office, there are still a few things you need to consider. Here are a few tips to help you have a successful meeting.
Be Kind to the Restaurant Staff
If you don’t want to make a bad impression, don’t be rude to the restaurant staff. While you expect to receive good service, if something goes wrong, be sure to handle it calmly and professionally. While you may have the right to be angry, the person you’re with will be watching to see how you handle problems when they come up. For this reason, it’s best to pick your battles carefully and always respond appropriately.
Don’t Try to Present Too Much
As you begin your discussion, don’t try to present too much information. While you may be able to show a potential client a few slides on your tablet, it’s better to do that at another time, inside your office. A business lunch is not the best setting for this since you can’t control the distractions around you and won’t have the equipment you need to make a great presentation.
Focus On Listening
To make the most of your meeting, focus on listening to your client or customer, rather than doing all of the talking. Otherwise, it will become a one-sided conversation and you won’t get much out of it. To stay on track, make a list of talking points and questions you want to ask before the day of the meeting.
Don’t Order Any Alcohol
No matter how relaxed you feel, resist the temptation to order drinks to go with your meal. While it may seem harmless, it can take your meeting in a different direction or you could end up offending the person you’re with. Whether or not they drink, they may think it’s inappropriate to do so while conducting business. You also risk the chance of one or both of you drinking a bit too much, which is something you don’t want to do.
Keep these tips in mind as you prepare for your next business lunch. They will help you to stay on track and get the most out of your meeting.