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Does it happen? All the time… It’s just another variation of business over golf or over a drink.

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In fact, business lunches are more common than any other forms of entertainment. There are a few reasons for this. Firstly, many restaurants are ’specially priced’ for lunch to discourage normal public to appear, thus making it conducive for business talks.

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Time is also a factor why lunches are highly preferred. Some meetings are held in the morning, and extends until near to noon(either by chance or deliberately). And when time comes for lunch, it’s only natural to invite/be invited for lunch. Lunch is also a good time to relax after half a day of ‘hectic’ schedule.

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Well, another good question is: - Can new deals be sealed over lunch?

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In the case of lunch and only lunch, the answer could just be NO and some occasional YESes. But in the case of lunch as a supporting ‘gift/bribe’ after a good presentation or meeting, the answer will be mostly YESes.

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It also depends upon who is invited for lunch. If it’s the final decision maker, chances of YES is high. If he/she is just a supporting staff, then possibly they will go back with a good impression of you, and later convince their bosses…. after some reminders normally.

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Supporting staffs are easier to invite, because they know that they have no final say and they know you know this fact as well. Therefore, they are not pressured to commit anything. This is the type of people I particularly like to invite for lunch, if the objective is merely helping the company spend some money. I also tend to be more relaxed with this group of people.

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And if closing sales is crucial, then decision maker has to be invited as far as possible.

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Well, there you have it…through experience, the different ways and considerations on why, who and how business over lunch is done. By the way, have you  invited/be en  invited for any business lunch?  Anything special to share?