Filed under Restaurants on October 15th, 2008:
Have A Business Lunch in Bakersfield, CA
Arguably, work-related lunches are just as important as the work you do on a daily business. So, if you’re living in Bakersfield and are planning a business lunch, here are some useful tips and helpful information.
7 Business Blunders To Avoid
Arriving late- If you want to start your lunch off on a bad note, come late. It’s the easiest way to ruin a business lunch because it gives the impression that you don’t value other people’s time. Do yourself a favor. Don’t come on time, but come early.
Dressing inappropriately- A common mistake many people make is going to a business lunch under-dressed. Depending on the type of business you’re in, you should know what attire is appropriate for a work-related lunch. If you don’t, do some research and err on the side of dressing professionally. Don’t insult your client by looking as if you don’t take the lunch seriously.
Bad table manners- This includes everything from using the correct utensils during your meal to being polite to the waitstaff.
Too much small talk- You want to be polite and decent, so do make small talk. Small talk will in some ways, break the ice. However, lunches are usually only around an hour or so for most people. Get down to business. People who know how much their time is worth will appreciate you for it.
Waiting for the check to decide who picks up the tab- If you initiated the lunch and invited a client, you should take care of the bill.
Drinking too much during lunch- It’s not uncommon for people to drink alcoholic beverages during business lunches. But, generally speaking, it’s not a good idea to drink them. Sip on a wine spritzer if you want to be polite, but don’t get carried away. You can drink after work at a happy hour somewhere.
2 Places Perfect for a Business Lunch in Bakersfield
When deciding on a restaurant for your lunch, consider the other patrons, the service, and the atmosphere. Many restaurants in business districts train waitstaff to back off when papers are out on the table. This is the type of place you want to go. Also, select a place conducive to a conversational meeting, not too loud, not too dark.
The Bistro and Bar at the Four Points in Sheraton, Bakersfield- Great food and great service make this a great place entertain corporate clients. This four-star restaurant has been awarded ‘Best Business Lunch’ by the Bakersfield Californian’s Reader’s Poll.
Sertino’s Cafe- This upscale, but casual restaurant provides a great atmosphere for business lunches and they have wireless access to the internet.