You Are What You Eat

The Business Dinner


More than half of all business deals are finalized over a meal, and a higher percentage of business discussion in general occurs while out to lunch or dinner. Business meals are often used to conduct job interviews, get to know a client or consultant, network with a colleague, or sign a contract.
Your professional polish is on display. What you order, how you eat, and what you discuss demonstrate your courtesy, poise, and respect for others, so never assume people won't notice or will tolerate poor manners.


Have you ever had a lunch or dinner meeting with a business associate whose manners were sub par? Perhaps she brushed her hair during the meal or he chewed with his mouth open. Such rudeness can destroy a colleague's impression, not to mention kill a deal.

Here are some practical suggestions to help you put your best fork forward so to speak.

Avoid talking with food in your mouth. Sounds like common sense, but the temptation can be great, especially if you have a lot of ground to cover in a short amount of time. Swallow before speaking, and remember what Mom said: Chew with your mouth closed.

Give your dining companion your full attention. Avoid flitting from table to table to greet other people. Instead, smile or wave and return to the conversation its not social hour, it’s a business meeting.

DO NOT answer your cell phone.

A business meal is not a time to relax and "let loose." It is a test of your social skills and your level of sophistication. Your interpersonal skills, including your treatment of the wait staff, are on display. One of the biggest blunders at the business meal is alcohol abuse. You can undo months and years of good impressions by excessive drinking. The key point to remember is that business should always be the number one item on the menu.