Guide to Business Lunch Etiquette

Business lunches are a great option used by companies for a meeting, or even for conducting interviews for senior positions like CEOs or Directors. They are a great way to interact and know your colleagues well. Whether you are attending a lunch interview or a regular business meeting over lunch, it is advisable that you are well aware of the etiquette to be followed at a business lunch.

It has been observed that many executives in senior positions have the best management skills around, but don't know the basics of business lunch etiquette. This affects their image in the corporate world too.

Just read through the etiquette guidelines given below and be prepared for your next business lunch.

Etiquette Guideline 1: Reach before scheduled time.

It is advisable to reach the venue at least fifteen minutes before the Lunch time. Punctuality is one quality which everybody appreciates.

Etiquette Guideline 2: Be attentive.

It is annoying for the speaker when he finds out that you are not paying attention to what he is talking. Ensure that you are focused and listening well to what the other people are saying. There may be attractive things in the restaurant which distract you, but you can have a look around only when nobody is talking.

Etiquette Guideline 3: No cell phone rings please.

When you enter the restaurant, remember to switch off your cell phone. If you are expecting some important call or message, then at least turn it to silent mode. This way you will not be disturbed in the meeting and can attend to those missed calls later.

Etiquette Guideline 4: Give due respect.

Keep in mind that you need to stand up when your guests move towards the table. This is especially helpful when you have the company of more than one person for a business lunch. A firm handshake is welcome after they come near the table.

Etiquette Guideline 5: Place napkin properly.

The etiquette to be followed in respect of a napkin is that it should be placed in the proper manner. Unfold your napkin and lay it nicely on your lap before starting lunch. After you finish eating, the napkin should be kept by your lunch serving dish.

Etiquette Guideline 6: Cutlery

When you find an array of different cutlery placed by your dish, you are bound to get perplexed. Where should you start from? What if you go wrong? No need to worry, just remember this- always start from the outermost cutlery. Use the utensils from the outermost side first and then the next and so on. Also, after you finish using a cutlery, place it diagonally on your dinner plate. Don't make a mistake of placing them on the lunch table ever!

Etiquette Guideline 7: Drinks

Never order your drink before the other person does it. You are his guest and should allow him to order first. It is better to order soda and water or a soft drink for yourself. Only if your host orders something alcoholic, you may strictly order only one drink for yourself as a courteous gesture.

Etiquette Guideline 8: Eating right

It is important to know what food to order during a business lunch. Just because somebody is treating you, don't order appetizers and deserts. Also, be mindful and order medium priced items on the menu. Going for anything too expensive or too low priced may create a bad impression about you.

Start eating only when all the other people with you on the table have been served lunch. If there is only one individual with you, you may start after he has started eating.

Etiquette Guideline 9: Stay at the table.

You should try and wait at the table till everybody is done. In case you have to leave for some urgent task, don't forget to excuse yourself before going.

Etiquette Guideline 10: Treat others if needed.

It may happen that you may be asked to treat the other person at lunch. It is advisable in such cases that you happily give in, and pay for the lunch. Always carry some cash with you to avoid embarrassment in such situations.