Eight Tips for a Successful Business Meal
PJ McGuire, president of Modet, Inc. (http://www.modetinc.com/), a Chicago-based etiquette training company specializing in modern etiquette and protocal services is convinced that business meals can make or break a deal. As more of us are doing business over a cup of coffee or dinner, I asked to her share some tips on how executives can make their next business meal a successful one.
“Remember, the purpose of a client meal is to build a strong, lasting relationship…not to eat,” says PJ. “Many business executives fail to make a positive impression due to basic etiquette faux pas."
Here are her eight tips to ensure your next business lunch or dinner is a success:
1. Confirm with your client or business associate and the restaurant 24 hours before the meal.
2. Arrive early and pay the bill in advance by providing the maître d' with your credit card.
3. Greet your client with a firm handshake and a smile.
4. Give your client the best seat, facing out into the room.
5. Mind your manners – allow your client to order first.
6. Remember your bread plate is on the left, drinks are on the right. A quick way to remember? Use the “BMW” approach. Bread, then your Meal, then Water (or your drink). PJ illustrates this approach in the picture to the right (PJ is standing; Jessica, seated, is learning to the BMW method.)
7. Discuss business after the main course is cleared.
8. Follow-up with a handwritten thank you note within 24 hours.
Here are her eight tips to ensure your next business lunch or dinner is a success:
1. Confirm with your client or business associate and the restaurant 24 hours before the meal.
2. Arrive early and pay the bill in advance by providing the maître d' with your credit card.
3. Greet your client with a firm handshake and a smile.
4. Give your client the best seat, facing out into the room.
5. Mind your manners – allow your client to order first.
6. Remember your bread plate is on the left, drinks are on the right. A quick way to remember? Use the “BMW” approach. Bread, then your Meal, then Water (or your drink). PJ illustrates this approach in the picture to the right (PJ is standing; Jessica, seated, is learning to the BMW method.)
7. Discuss business after the main course is cleared.
8. Follow-up with a handwritten thank you note within 24 hours.
I love #6 - it's so easy to remember and for those of us who are constantly trying to figure out which bread plate or drink is ours, this works!
For more information about PJ or Modet's services, visit http://www.modetinc.com/.
Until next time...
-Megy Karydes
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