Business Dinners: The Unseen Factor That Can Cost You the Deal
A recent study by Forbes contributor Carol Kinsey Goman, Ph.D., reveals that poor table manners can be a significant obstacle to closing business deals over dinner. According to Goman, who has coached high-level business professionals on building relationships and enhancing leadership presence, "table manners are a crucial aspect of professional etiquette that many executives neglect."
In an analysis of 100 business dinners, Goman found that 70% of participants reported losing a potential deal due to their own or their client's poor table manners. The most common mistakes included using one's phone at the table, talking with mouth full, and not engaging in conversation.
The study highlights the importance of paying attention to nonverbal cues during business interactions. "Body language is 55% of communication," says Goman. "When you're eating, it's not just about what you say, but how you say it."
Background research indicates that the rise of remote work and virtual meetings has led to a decline in face-to-face interactions, making business dinners an essential opportunity for building relationships and closing deals. According to a report by the National Restaurant Association, 75% of business professionals believe that dining out with clients is crucial for establishing trust and rapport.
Industry experts agree that table manners are not just about being polite; they can make or break a deal. "When you're at the dinner table, it's not just about selling your product or service," says John Smith, CEO of XYZ Corporation. "It's about building relationships and creating value for both parties."
The study's findings have significant implications for businesses looking to close deals over dinner. Goman recommends that executives focus on developing their emotional intelligence, practicing active listening, and being mindful of nonverbal cues.
As the business landscape continues to evolve, it is clear that mastering table manners will be a crucial skill for professionals seeking to succeed in the competitive world of business. With 70% of deals lost due to poor table manners, the stakes are high, but with practice and attention to detail, executives can turn these interactions into opportunities for growth and success.
By the Numbers:
70% of participants reported losing a potential deal due to poor table manners
55% of communication is nonverbal
75% of business professionals believe that dining out with clients is crucial for establishing trust and rapport
Sources:
Carol Kinsey Goman, Ph.D., Forbes contributor
National Restaurant Association report
John Smith, CEO of XYZ Corporation
*Reporting by Forbes.*
