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The first few times you attend a business luncheon or dinner, you may not know what to expect. Many of the rules that apply to any business meeting can also be followed when having a business meal. However, there are a few other considerations to remember like using basic table manners, choosing appropriate conversation and selecting convenient meal choices when attending a business meal. Here are a few tips to ease any tension and get you through a luncheon or dinner.

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EditSteps

  1. Act During a Business Meal Step 1.jpg
    1
    Arrive on time or a little early. You never want to be late for a business meal. It's obvious to everyone who arrived on time when you come in late and attempt to find a seat. By arriving early, you can observe how seating is being arranged and where you'll be sitting. However, don't arrive too early. You don't want to be an inconvenience to any staff or helpers who are prepping the meal or dining area.
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  2. Act During a Business Meal Step 2.jpg
    2
    Dress appropriately for the function. If it's a simple business luncheon, dress as you would for work. A dinner event is typically a bit more formal or dressy. Keep in mind, it's always better to be overdressed for an event than under dressed.
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    3
    Consume alcohol in appropriate levels. If you notice that nobody else is drinking, do not drink either. Typically, two glasses of wine during a dinner is not considered excessive. But, drinking more than that can open you up to scrutiny. Additionally, you don't want to get a bit tipsy if you're trying to conduct business.
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    4
    Focus on casual conversation prior to the agenda getting underway. Avoid personal topics or subjects relating to politics or religion, unless everyone at the table has similar views. Avoid excluding others at the table due to conversation topic choices. If you are caught in a discussion about which you know little, refrain from contributing except for gestures or non-verbal cues.
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    5
    Select your meal choice decisively and with regard to how easy it will be to eat. Spaghetti or sandwiches that fall apart easily are not good choices.
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    6
    Use proper table manners. Place your napkin in your lap at the time you arrive at the table. Use your silverware from the outside in, as each course is served. Do not talk with your mouth full, or talk with your hands while you're holding the silverware. Take small bites and chew your food with your mouth closed.
  7. Act During a Business Meal Step 7.jpg
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    Follow others' leads while you're at the business meal. If they eat quickly, try to do the same. Don't order dessert, unless they do. Get right to business if everyone else is doing the same.
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Article Info

Categories: Workplace Management and Coping Skills

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