Socializing on a Shoestring: How to Wine and Dine Customers in Tough Economic Times

Socializing on a Shoestring: How to Wine and Dine Customers in Tough Economic Times
Written by Barbara Pachter

The economy is in turmoil and your budget is restricted. Yet socializing
with your customers is still an important way to cultivate business. But how
do you continue to entertain business clients and still be fiscally responsible?

You don’t have to spend a small fortune to have a good meal; you just need to do it smartly. It is possible to be a gracious host and stay within a budget.

Here are eight tips for socializing when funds are tight:

1. Pick The Restaurant Carefully. There are many excellent restaurants at different price ranges. Get recommendations from other people, visit the restaurant yourself, or check the menu prices on the restaurant’s web site. You can also explain your choice to your guest by saying something like, “I know this great Italian restaurant. It has excellent calamari which I know is one of your favorite dishes.”

2. Make Suggestions In The Mid-Price Range. As a host it is your responsibility to make recommendations to your guest. You don’t have to recommend just the most expensive items.

3. Don’t Order The Specials Unless You Know The Price. Many waiters don’t give the price when telling you their specials of the night. It can be uncomfortable to ask the price of an item in front of your guest. Specials can cost from 10 – 40 percent more than the regular menu items.

4. Manage The Ordering Of The Wine. Learn a little about wine so you can take charge of the ordering of the wine. There are lots of good wines at reasonable prices. Check the wine list. It is often posted on the restaurant’s web site or you can talk to the wine steward ahead of time.

5. Preorder The Dinner, If Hosting A Number Of People. You can usually pick three entrees ahead of time. Many restaurants will print a special menu for your guests.

6. Stay Sober. It is easy to lose control and forget your budget if you have had too much to drink. Order a drink you don’t like and you can nurse it all evening.

7. Discreetly Use Any Coupons You May Have. With sales down, many restaurants are offering discount coupons. You can arrange ahead of time to have the check paid away from the table so your guest does not see the bill paying.

8. It Doesn’t Always Have To Be Dinner. Lunch and even breakfast can provide an opportunity to socialize with your customers during a less expensive meal.

www.pachter.com
bpachter@pachter.com

Business Etiquette Expert Barbara Pachter teaches dining/etiquette for companies worldwide. She has authored 8 books, including "NewRules@Work: 79 Etiquette Tips, Tools, and Techniques to Get Ahead and Stay Ahead" and "When the Little Things Count."