In the age of digital information overload, in-person meetings are becoming increasingly valuable. Having lunch with your boss gives you the opportunity to strengthen your relationship with him in an informal, personal setting. Before you go, brush up on business lunch etiquette skills to avoid embarrassing faux pas.
During a lunch meeting, it can be difficult to decide when to discuss work. In general, it's best to hold off on business talk until you've ordered your meal to avoid being interrupted by the waiter. Engaging in casual conversation is an important part of getting to know your boss and building a stronger working relationship. If your boss requested the meeting, allow him to take the conversational lead. If you extended the invitation, wait for a natural lull in the conversation to bring up work-related topics.
One of the easiest ways to violate business lunch etiquette is to order a meal that makes it virtually impossible to get any work done. Look to your boss for cues about what to order. If he skips an appetizer, follow suit; otherwise, you run the risk of extending the meal beyond your boss' allotted time. Skip any foods that are likely to make a mess, and choose meals that will allow you to eat neatly. Feel free to order a drink if your boss does, but only do so if you know you can handle having a drink without becoming tipsy or unfocused. If you choose to have an alcoholic beverage, order just one drink and sip it slowly. When you're uncertain about your tolerance, it's best to abstain from alcohol in order to remain professional.
Cell phone use is a touchy point when it comes to of business lunch etiquette. It is almost always best to silence your phone and place it in your bag or pocket for the duration of the meal. If you're waiting for a time-sensitive call or text from a client, turn your phone volume on, and let your boss know what's going on. Do not lay the phone on the table, as the light and vibration will be a constant distraction.
A lunch meeting can be an excellent way to connect with your boss in a one-on-one setting. Take advantage of the time you have alone with your boss, and use it to talk about issues that are directly related to you and your position in the company. Bring up suggestions, talk about clients and talk in-depth about current challenges. If you need to talk about serious issues, business lunch etiquette dictates that you request a table in a quieter part of the restaurant.
In general, business lunch etiquette suggests that the person who scheduled the meeting should pay. If you set up the lunch, arrive early, give your credit card to the server and request that a 20 percent tip be added to the bill. At the end of the meal, the server can bring the receipt directly to you to head off any uncomfortable "who pays" discussions.
By paying attention to standard business lunch etiquette rules, you can avoid making embarrassing mistakes in front of your boss. When you handle the basics with grace, it's easier for you to stay focused on the discussion.
Photo courtesy of Ambro at FreeDigitalPhotos.net
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