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Ever wondered why seasoned executives still insist on lunch meetings in our digital age? It’s not just about the food (although who doesn’t love a good meal on the company dime?). Business lunches pack a punch that your average Zoom call just can’t match.
Let’s dig into why stepping out of the office for an in-person sit down might be the best business move you make this week.
In a world where we can connect with anyone at the click of a button, you might think the “business lunch” is as outdated as the fax machine gathering dust in the corner of your office.
But, it’s time to think again; According to a study by Forbes, 85% of people believe face-to-face meetings build stronger, more meaningful business relationships. So, what better way to meet face-to-face than over great food?
There’s something magical about sharing a meal. It’s a universal human experience that instantly puts people at ease. Dr. Lakshmin Meunier, a psychologist specializing in workplace interactions, notes that “sharing food triggers the release of oxytocin, often called the ‘bonding hormone’.”
So while you’re savoring that perfectly cooked steak, you’re also subconsciously building rapport with your dining companion.
“But I’m too busy for long lunches!” I hear you cry. Here’s the thing: a well-planned business lunch can actually save you time. Harvard Business Review found that face-to-face requests were 34 times more effective than emailed ones. Imagine how many back-and-forth emails you could eliminate with one productive lunch meeting!
Let’s face it, it’s hard to really get to know someone in a stuffy conference room. But over lunch? You might discover you both have a passion for obscure 80s movies or share a secret love of puns. These personal connections make future business interactions smoother and more enjoyable.
Ever tried to read someone’s tone in an email? It’s like trying to taste food through a TV screen, pretty much impossible. In person, you can pick up on subtle cues, body language and those all-important non-verbal signals that often convey more than words ever could.
There’s a reason why companies like Google and Apple have amazing cafeterias. A change of scenery can spark creativity. The relaxed atmosphere of a restaurant, combined with good food, can lead to breakthrough ideas and solutions you might never have thought of back at the office.
When it comes to important negotiations, nothing beats breaking bread together. A Harvard Business Review study found that in-person requests were 34 times more likely to be successful than those made via email. Plus, the act of treating someone to a meal creates a sense of reciprocity, they’ll be more inclined to return the favor in business dealings.
Picking the perfect spot is crucial. You want somewhere with good food, a professional atmosphere and noise levels that allow for easy conversation. Need some inspiration? Check out our guides to the best business lunch spots in major cities:
Remember, a business lunch is still a business meeting. A few key tips:
While it’s great to build personal connections, remember why you’re there. A good rule of thumb is to spend about 1/3 of the time on small talk and 2/3 on business matters. And always, always be kind to the wait staff – your lunch companion will notice how you treat others.
Don’t let all that great lunch conversation go to waste! Send a follow-up email within 24 hours, summarizing key points discussed and next steps. It’s a professional courtesy that also ensures you’re both on the same page.
If you’re traveling for business, why not kill two birds with one stone? Schedule important meetings over lunch to make the most of your trip. At Inspired Travel Group, we can help you plan the perfect business lunch as part of your corporate travel itinerary. From restaurant recommendations to reservations, we’ve got you covered.
While virtual meetings have their place, there are times when only a face-to-face lunch will do. Consider opting for a business lunch when:
In our increasingly digital world, the humble business lunch remains a powerful tool in your professional arsenal. It’s a chance to connect on a human level, spark creativity and build the kind of relationships that lead to long-term business success. So go ahead, schedule that lunch meeting.
Planning business trips involves much more than just arranging lunch meetings. Inspired Travel Group specializes in comprehensive corporate travel management, ensuring every aspect of your business journey is seamless and productive. Contact us today to discover how we can optimize your entire business travel experience, saving you time, reducing stress and maximizing the value of your corporate trips.
