What are the best practices for networking at a business lunch or dinner?

1 Choose the right venue

The first step to a successful networking lunch or dinner is to choose a suitable venue that matches your purpose, budget, and preferences. You want a place that is convenient, comfortable, and not too noisy or crowded. You also want to consider the cuisine, the service, and the atmosphere. If you are inviting someone, you can ask for their suggestions or preferences, or offer them a few options to choose from. If you are accepting an invitation, you can research the venue online or ask for directions and parking information.

2 Prepare your agenda and goals

Before you attend a networking lunch or dinner, you should have a clear idea of what you want to achieve and how you want to present yourself. You should do some research on the people you are meeting, their backgrounds, interests, and goals. You should also prepare some questions, topics, and stories that can spark a conversation and show your value and personality. You should also have some business cards, a pen, and a notebook ready to exchange and take notes.

3 Follow the etiquette rules

During the networking lunch or dinner, you should follow some basic etiquette rules that can make you look professional and respectful. You should arrive on time, dress appropriately, and turn off your phone. You should also be polite and courteous to the staff, your host, and your guests. You should avoid ordering messy, spicy, or expensive dishes, and drink moderately if at all. You should also pay attention to the cues and signals of the people you are talking to, and adjust your tone, pace, and volume accordingly.

4 Engage in meaningful conversations

The main purpose of a networking lunch or dinner is to engage in meaningful conversations that can build rapport, trust, and mutual benefit. You should avoid talking only about yourself, your work, or your problems. You should also avoid controversial, sensitive, or negative topics that can create tension or conflict. Instead, you should focus on finding common ground, asking open-ended questions, listening actively, and giving feedback. You should also share your insights, ideas, and stories that can demonstrate your expertise, value, and personality.

5 Follow up and stay in touch

After the networking lunch or dinner, you should follow up and stay in touch with the people you met. You should send a thank-you note or email within 24 hours, expressing your appreciation and interest. You should also mention something specific that you discussed or learned, and suggest a next step or action. You should also connect with them on social media or other platforms, and share relevant content or opportunities. You should also keep in touch regularly, and look for ways to help or collaborate with them in the future.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?