MANNERS MATTER

 

Inviting a client to lunch is probably the most persuasive

form of building a business client relationship. For most professionals, lunch is often used to discuss contract details or negotiate deals so be specific in communicating the purpose of the meeting. A change in environment helps stimulate new ideas and organizing a business meal deserves as much attention to detail as does a board meeting. In order to satisfy corporate expense reporting, your company will need to know that the lunch will benefit them in terms of good will, new ventures or client loyalty. Orchestrating a successful business meal depends not only on your presentation to the client but also your relationship with the restaurant, your knowledge of the menu, your handling of the invitation and reservation and at the table it's then time to impress your client with your dining expertise and table manners.   

 

  

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A more relaxed dress code and working in a multi-tasking environment can often lead to meeting clients for a casual lunch but you will build stronger relationships and impress your clients  by "entertaining" them to lunch.  Good table manners and dining etiquette show a level of education, and renewed knowledge of "how to be formal" is a useful skill for both business and social events as there are dining protocols to follow and faux pas to be avoided! Being at ease with your place setting, flatware and table etiquette means you can concentrate on the business at hand. Emphasis will be on US and European dining styles but we offer a working knowledge of all five main dining styles so you can be at ease dining with international clients here and abroad .   

             

                       "If you want to get a point across, entertain."  George Bernard Shaw 1856 - 1950