CentrAL INC! | Central Alabama Business Journal March/April 2023 | Page 52

10 things

10 things to know about :

Wining & Dining Clients

Local business leader dishes out top tips to help your business grow and thrive .
Every day , myriad relationships are deepened , sales are made , deals are closed and other transactions are completed in restaurants , coffee shops and bars . Food is universal , and conducting business with a glass or fork in hand fosters connections in a more relaxed setting , which , according to Executive Chef Eric Rivera of Montgomery ’ s Vintage Hospitality Group , can bring lasting benefits . “’ Wining and dining ’ clients often provides an opportunity for both parties to let down their guards and have more candid and open conversations ,” he said . “ At VHG , we ’ ve seen many friendships and long-term relationships form through these type of dining interactions and have been fortunate to experience the same ourselves , too .” Here , Rivera offers his 10 tips on how to wine and dine successfully .

Don ’ t :

Go Overboard

Do :

Go For It

7
1
Do Your Homework : It ’ s best to know a little about the person or people you ’ re taking out for a meal or drink so you choose an appropriate venue . Do they hate seafood ? Do they have any dietary restrictions ? Do they abstain from alcohol ?
2
Do Be Real : This always applies , not just in a business dinner , but be straightforward and honest in your conversations about your business intentions .
3
Do Trust the Staff : Let your server guide the meal and do what they do best .
PRO TIPS :
9
4
Don ’ t Overindulge : There ’ s no need to drink the most or spend the most .
5
Don ’ t Be Too Serious Too Quick :
Keep the conversation simple and light-hearted .
6
Don ’ t Be Pushy : Nobody appreciates being pressured to eat or drink something they don ’ t like , so don ’ t try to make anyone try a specific food or beverage . Remember , your favorite may not be theirs !
Don ’ t Draw It Out : Don ’ t linger too long . A client shouldn ’ t feel obligated to stay after the meal is over .
8
Don ’ t Be Rude : Give your client your full attention . Put your cell phone away and focus on them .
Don ’ t Stretch Yourself Too Thin :
Don ’ t invite more guests than you can handle . You want to give everyone the attention they ’ re due .
10
Do Branch Out : Pay attention to tip No . 9 . But , if the opportunity is there , invite your and your clients ’ spouses . They can often prove to be big helps in building relationships !
52 CentrAL Inc !