subject: Dining For Business Is Rewarding [print this page] Meeting clients over dinner or lunch is a great way to build a relationship. Business ventures often come with a lot of twists and turns; it is important to be able to get the other party to relax a bit, and hear your side of things. Taking a client or a prospective client out to an enjoyable restaurant will help you to take advantage of a more relaxing atmosphere. Sitting in an office or boardroom for a long period of time can seem very isolating. People like to relax and discuss matters while they take part in an enjoyable meal. A great dining experience can help you to seal the deal, and progress in your negotiations. Many companies have been meetings over lunch and dinner. It is no surprise that people find this to be more rewarding than closed doors at the office.
It is important to plan ahead. Make sure that your reservations are in order and that you have been to the restaurant before. You do not want any surprises. The food should be excellent and so should the service. You do not want to go to just any restaurant; you want the best dining experience for your meeting. Make sure that your table is located in a more secluded area of the restaurant and not in the center of the room. This will help with the noise level and the enjoyment factor.
Take time to discuss the menu items and featured dishes. Speak to your server and ask him about any special sauces or other related questions you might have. It is important to be relaxed and sociable. Your meeting should be easy going and conversational. Your dining experience will help you to bring all the pieces of the puzzle together. Talk about the food that you ordered, how it tastes and ease your way into the business that needs your attention. You will find that by doing this, you will have a much more enjoyable experience and you might find some warm laughter along the way. Your goal is to build bridges and move the business into your direction.
Choose a restaurant that is a short drive from your office. You do not want to force your clients or prospective clients to drive an hour or more away. That is time tossed away. You need to maximize your time and your dining experience. Make a reservation today.
