Since the beginning of my professional career, I have always considered having lunch with people as a central element in my professional activity. I don’t know if by natural tendency or by having read Keith Ferrazi‘s book “Never Eat Alone” (from which I wrote the post “Never Eat Alone”). In any case, I have always thought that business lunches are very important.
It is said that for Henry Ford, professional lunches were decisive. It seems that he organized work lunches with various professionals and paid close attention to some aspects. I also add my own experience to HIGHLIGHT SOME KEY ASPECTS TO MAKE A GOOD IMPRESSION AT WORK LUNCHES.
- PUNCTUALITY: Apart from a matter of education and good manners, not being punctual can be perceived as a person who does not manage his time well. So, obsess about being punctual.
- ACT WITHOUT ANALYZING: Henry Ford is said to have discarded candidates who put salt on their plates before they had tasted them. Not that he had anything against salt or other spices. For him, it was stupid to act in a way without having gathered enough information about it.
- EDUCATION AND KINDNESS TO PEOPLE: Another key aspect. Ford noticed how the waiters and other people in the place were treated. Being kind and polite to everyone is key to transmitting a good personal and professional image.
- GOOD MANNERS WHILE EATING; Eat slowly, chew well, and with your mouth closed. Before drinking, wipe your lips in case there are food residues. Keep the napkin in your lap. Don’t start eating until all the dishes are served (and on the second course, don’t start until they are all served, or they insist you do so). Go easy on the alcohol. Do not eat too much, or foods that are difficult to digest, because surely the work lunch will be extended, or you will have other professional activities after lunch.
- TALK AND LISTEN: In all conversations, there should be a good balance between talking and listening. It is important to know how to speak and convey the ideas you want to convey, but it is also essential to listen well. Let the other person talk, let them finish their sentences, and listen actively.
- CHECK YOUR CLOTHING: You must be appropriately dressed depending on where you eat and with whom you do it. Nor is a meal the same as a dinner, or a formal or rather informal event. So, pay attention to how you should dress (in some cases you can ask what dress code is planned for the event).
If you liked this post, I’ll tell you more in the next one; “12 things not to forget in your business lunches (PART II)”, don’t miss it!”
