| |
Show Up
On Time - Make sure you show up on time to the
restaurant. If you’re inevitably running late, make sure
you call the restaurant or the person you’re meeting and
let them know as soon as possible.
Dress To Impress - No matter what kind of lunch
or dinner you’re going to, wear a business suit unless
specifically told not to. Remember, jackets can be
removed if it turns out to be casual dining. If you were
invited by someone else, follow their lead.
Mind Your Manners - Make sure you know proper
dining etiquette, starting with placing the napkin on
your lap. Be sure to extend the "power" seat to your
client. Seat yourself in the seat with your back facing
the door/main body of the room.
Turn Off Your Cell
Phone - Make sure you turn off your cell phone (or
at least put it on vibrate) before the meal starts.
Follow The Leader - If you’re the guest, follow
the host’s lead. Once everyone is seated, place your
napkin on your lap. This gesture serves as a cue that
the meal is about to begin. When you’re deciding what to
order, don’t go for the most expensive item on the menu
- stay moderate. If you’re having trouble, just ask the
host, “Everything looks fantastic! Any recommendations?”
Watch What You Drink - If the host orders an
alcoholic drink, you may order one also - but stick to
one drink. Do not order an alcoholic drink unless the
host does.
Make Sure You Know The Restaurant - Where you
bring a client will make an impression, so make sure you
pick a good restaurant. Groupdyne.com
(http://www.groupdyne.com) is a perfect resource to find
venue on where to dine.
Keep It PC! - Sometimes conversation does get
casual, but don’t get too casual. Especially avoid
conversations centered around politics, religion and any
other potentially inflammatory subjects. Please avoid
telling derogatory, ethnic and other offensive jokes.
Learn the Culture – When traveling in other
countries for business take time to learn the local
customs to avoid any embarrassing situations.
Remember To Say
Thanks! - Always
thank the other person, no matter if you were the host
or guest. If you were the invited, make sure to send a
handwritten thank-you note afterwards. Treat the server
as one of your employees. It's a small price to pay for
good service, personal attention and, hopefully, the
contract that you land!. |
|
