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.
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.