The Art of the Business Lunch

[ssntj]

Folks,

Let's make something very clear here. If you really have to listen to someone like Robin Jay explain to you how to officially do business over a meal then sales certainly isn't your calling. Robin is actually making a living on explaining the most common sence business approach since time began. Nothing new here!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[BlacklitFloater]

this was a cool video to stumble upon!

[monica406]

sorry im a bit confuse over 4:25..when the guy said "let me get the tip" does this mean he only pays the tip and she has to pay the rest of the bill?

[lvwriter]

HI, Monica~I was saying that this vendor ONLY offered to get the tip! He had invited ME to lunch, so the check was his responsibility. PLUS he was trying to sell me his services! Whoever does the inviting should ALWAYS pick up the check. I was so disgusted, I told him, "Nevermind." And I paid for the lunch. And, no, he did NOT get my business!

Always pay with a credit card. It's authoritative and does not invite participation (as in "Let me get the tip.")

Robin Jay

[monica406]

But may I ask, if he does offer the tip (let's say u allow him to do so), how exactly will he do it? say if the bill is $100 dollars and when u put down the $100, will he then take the check and pay the tip?

again, thank you very much for your quick reply and the video. your video is very helpful and I really have learnt alot from it. it save me alot of embarassment in the future. I hope one day I will become as successful as you! :)

[lvwriter]

Thank you for your sweet words. To be clear, there is no splitting a business check - not even when someone offers to get the tip. If you can't afford to take someone out and pick up the entire check, try taking them to breakfast. It's more affordable and that way, you can pick up the check AND the tip. Hope that helps! Robin

[monica406]

Thank you again for your quick reply. I have one last question (sorry!):

sometimes the restaurant will put the bill down onto the table when you have finished eatting (although you didnt ask for it, as you still hope to chat with your frds on the table). If this is the case, is it rude to leave the cheque on the table and continue talking to your frds and pay only when you have the intention to leave the restaurant. OR would the right etiqutte be paying the bill immediately?

Thank you again :)

[lvwriter]

It depends... The best way to handle the check is to settle it BEFORE your server has a chance to bring it to you. At some point during the meal, excuse yourself to the rest room. Find your server and hand them your credit card. Then, when they bring it to the table, it's already taken care of and that eliminates any discussion or fight over the bill. :)

[iloveCoffeebook]

I've been a fan of Ms. Jay's intelligent/inspiring methods of "The Art of the Business Lunch" for years. Robin Jay's approach to the etiquette of doing lunch with business clients is authentic because when you read her book(s) or listen to her speak - you know that Ms. Jay has "been there/done that". She captures and commands your attention with her bubbly sense of humor and valuable life experiences. Cheers to the "Queen of Business Lunch"!

S.Zimmer, ILoveCoffeeBook(dot)com