Relationship building is one of the most important parts of getting a job done
. Many people have a lot of knowledge and skill, but if you do not build a relationship you could lose their valuable insights.
These skill are even more vital if the person with whom you are working is from a good distance and your contact with them are rare.
In order to make the most of your time take advantage of trust building time off the job. This is a opportunity to learn the other person's communication style and dreams. These will reward you later. It is not hard just let the conversation flow.
Unfortunately many business people make the mistake of assuming the old club and bar routine will fit everyone. If you are wise you will consider the person and go somewhere where they will feel at home. Some people are culturally sensitive and your typical unwinding spot will not be comfortable.
Where you plan to drink be ware that some hold religious conviction against drinking. In addition some cultures don't drink as much as we do. There is on need to offend anyone over a glass of wine avoid this by ask ahead of time.
A restaurant were you can wine and dine your new contact may be a good choice, but beware that it may have some down side. The noise level and the clients nearby may make the situation less the comfortable to talk about the important issues.
Another way of establishing personal contact is to entertain at home, but be careful to avoid getting too personal. This destroys your professional relationship.
You also may need to go over the menu remember that different area have different taste and other cultures don't always like our food. The meal is uncomfortable from the beginning if your menu is not suitable. Just ask that is the easy way.