Mon 2 Nov 2009
Small Business Tip of the Week: Business Dinners
Posted by Megan Dorn under Small Business
Taking clients out for business dinners can be a great way for you to interact with them on a more personal level. We live in a busy society however, so you must be respectful of other people’s free time. Find out what kind of schedule your client has. Does he need to be at home with his kids on week nights? Does she prefer to spend her weekends at her house on the lake? Sometimes just by showing that you’re being cognoscente of your clients’ busy schedules and home lives, you can go a long way in gaining trust and deepening relationships.
November 3rd, 2009 at 6:51 am
People should also understand how to conduct a business dinner. I’m amazed at how many people ask to close a deal during the salad. Also, make your guest comfortable. Don’t make them sit in the chair with their back to the kitchen door where they get bumped by passing waiters.
November 3rd, 2009 at 5:58 pm
In my work as a stress management consultant to large health organizations and businesses, I agree with the concept of making the conversation focus on the interests and needs of the client. No one likes to feel that they are invisible so this is truly important. Also, making the dinner as pleasant as possible in other ways through careful conversation that steers cleaar of political or blue jokes in an effort to create a relaxed environment. Be careful of not unknowingly insulting your guest with comments that could be painful or embarrassing.