Impress your clients over Lunch

Are you going to approach your client for a new business idea and feeling nervous about it? The atmosphere of the office will only add to your nervousness. Why not take your client to an informal atmosphere before proposing the idea? Why not take him out for lunch?

The idea of discussing business over lunch is proclaimed for years. The atmosphere of the restaurant will ease your nerves and you will be able to keep your point with more confidence and clarity. 

A lot has been said or written over the power of good food. The aroma of food eases you and leaves a positive effect on your brain. Science says that the consumption of glucose activates the part of your brain that is responsible for the regulation of prejudice aggression, self-control and promotes group harmony, almost everything you need to crack a business deal.

It is not an easy task to arrange a successful business lunch. There are a few points need to be taken care of. Arranging it in a proper way will help you grab new opportunities and promote your brand.

We Owen Brothers catering service help you to arrange an impressive lunch for your clients. We have 44 years of experience in arranging event catering in London, luncheons, get-togethers and office meetings.

These few tips and tricks will help you to make the event more successful.

Take account of food allergies and preferences: “What if your guest suffers from a particular food allergy?” It may seem awkward to ask but go ahead. It’s necessary and important. Once you have sent the invitation, take account of their food preferences and intolerance. If comfortable, you can also ask about their dietary preferences.

Decide the menu: Select a menu based on the favourite dishes of the group, not an individual. The menu should be decided earlier because deciding it on the stop may create chaos. Serve a main dish with a few side dishes. Do not order too much or too little. Try to make it perfect. We provide the best fruit skewers in the town.  

Mind your manners: An insignificant mannerism at the business lunch can potentially damage your image and relationship. Chew your food properly and never talk while eating. Do not spit the tiny pieces of food and ask your client before putting food in your plate. These are considered some basic manners. Follow the entire basic rulebook while you are eating out with someone. No one likes to deal with cavemen.   

The quality of food: Either buffet or plated catering, the food you have arranged should be of good quality. Read reviews of the catering company properly before you assign them the job. Also, make sure the food is prepared on the right time. It may turn extra crispy if prepared too early and reheated again and again. The quality of food also gets spoiled this way.

Improve your dialogue: Nobody likes to hear constantly. One-sided conversation only irritates. Everyone likes dialogue. Motivate them to talk over. Start a discussion with the common choice and take it to the next level. Don’t be too personal or try to create a bond. Listen more than speak. Answer their questions and ask new questions.

No alcohol: Alcohol is big No when you are at a business lunch. Having a drink in the middle of the day will erode your client’s confidence in your ability. Yes, drinking can impair your ability. Moreover, it will divert you from your agenda and you will lose your focus. Ordering a drink during lunch can simply ruin your image. 

Choose desserts wisely: Ask your clients about their lactose intolerance and diabetes before ordering desserts. A few people usually avoid high sugar content as it is not good for health.  Make catering company aware of the fact that the desserts should not be too sweet and should not be served in too much quantity. Fruit-salad can be served if your clients are not so fond of desserts.   

Don’t fight over the bill: Generally, the check is picked by the person who orders the lunch. The classiest and smoothest way is to settle the bill even before your client arrives. It saves you from the on the spot chaos. When asked about the bill at the end of the meeting, you can simply say, “It’s already been taken care of.” Imagine how classy it will appear. If you are paying after lunch, use a credit card instead of cash. Sometimes, your client may insist to pay the bill. First of all, deny politely. Acquiesce if they still insist. It is far better than creating a scene.  

Get off the phone: The most important thing: put off your phone. Switch it off, put it on silent or better leave it in the car. Tapping on your phone is a clear indication that you are not listening. It hinders communication and can worsen your situation in the business.   

We also offer the office lunch delivery services for your staff, employees and clients. You just need to inform us a day before your meeting or event.