The Business of Entertaining

Conducting business in conjunction with a social activity can be a great way to network and build rapport. These events typically coincide with a meal; they can be anything from a breakfast, lunch or dinner with just a few people to a much larger function.



When you have done the inviting, it is important to remember that you are the “host” of the event and need to act accordingly. Good table manners and social skills are essential to making the right impression. If you are meeting for breakfast or lunch, be sure to suggest a venue that is convenient for your guest. Upon arrival, ask your guest what his or her time constraints are so that you allow them enough time to get to their next commitment.



If you are the host, you set the tone. Meet your guest in the lobby of the restaurant and sit down together. Arrive early, confirm that you will have a table and let the host or server know that you will receive the check. It is always better to choose a restaurant that you are familiar with so that you can recommend items to your guest.



If your guest has not arrived at the designated time, wait about 15 minutes before calling their office or cell phone. If you cannot get confirmation that they are on their way, wait 30 more minutes and then leave a message with the hostess (along with a small tip). When you speak to your guest later, simply accept the apologies and reschedule.



If you are running late, call the restaurant or the guest’s cell phone and let them know. A long explanation is not necessary; just apologize and move on.



If you are the guest, look to your host to set the tone as it relates to ordering and drinking. Order items similar to the other guests or host. If you are ordering first, chose something in the medium price range.
 Put your napkin on your lap right away, and if you must leave the table, fold the napkin and lay it on the left side of your plate. Remember to offer bread, butter or spreads to the person to your left, and then pass to the right.



If food is delivered at different times, look for the host to tell you to go ahead a start so food won’t get cold. Do the same for your guest if you are the host. If you drop utensils on the floor, leave them and ask for another. If you spill food or drink on the table, quickly pick up the glass and place your napkin over the spill. Signal to the waiter to assist and to bring a fresh napkin.



I also like to adhere to the following rules when attending a business function:


• Always arrive on time or within 15 minutes of the start of the event.
• Locate your host, and when possible, say hello and thank them for the invitation.

• Do not to take phone calls during a meal or an event.
• Always wear nametags at the right shoulder.
• Never arrive to a buffet or cocktail reception when you are starving. If you are, make a plate and eat quickly before getting a drink. It is always easier to navigate without a drink and a plate in your hand.
• Do not stand at the buffet table and graze. Use cocktail napkins when eating, and carry one with your drink so you are not shaking hands with a wet hand. If you are juggling food and a drink and are being introduced or have a mouthful, it is appropriate to nod your head and smile.

• If the event is a seated dinner, do not rearrange place cards for your own reasons. If seating is open, ask someone already seated if you may join that table.

• Always write a thank you note, especially if your guest is a potential business client.



Look at these events as an opportunity to polish your networking skills. Avoid potential hot topics, be a good listener and come prepared with some safe subjects that you can use as conversation starters.


Remember that the goal of these events is to expand your horizons and get to know new contacts. How you approach business entertaining, whether as a guest or a host, is so important, and in today’s competitive business climate, a ‘business as usual’ approach simply does not suffice. If you can excel at this, it will surely get you noticed by potential customers and higher-ranking individuals in your own organization. I guarantee it.

By April Fawcett Nagel