4 Tips For Entertaining Business Clients

 

1. Know the purpose of the meeting.

Corporate hospitality signifies loyalty and investment in a client, but that doesn’t equate throwing a party complete with fireworks display. Decide whether you are entertaining to socialise or to talk shop, and ensure you communicate this with your client. It’s your responsibility to set the boundaries between professional hospitality and over familiarity – so no bringing up contracts over catch-up cocktails.

2. Pick an appropriate activity.

Corporate hospitality can take various forms: lunch at a restaurant, a trip to the theatre or even booking a private box at a football club. If you’re stuck for ideas, research your company’s history of hospitality and their relationship with this particular client.

Make sure the chosen activity reflects the ethos of both your employer and the client. For instance, if you work for a food manufacturer and your client specialises in vegetarian food then don’t take them out for a steak dinner.

3. Check how your employer will manage your entertainment expenses.

Do they arrange and pay for the entertainment directly? Are your expenses reimbursed? If so, remember to keep your receipts. If you’re required to produce an invoice, do this as soon as possible after you have entertained your client.

Ideally, you should know how expenses will be managed before the activity is conducted so that there are no nasty surprises.

4. Don’t get distracted.

The quick-start guide to The Bribery Act 2010 states that organisations could be liable if a member of staff – like an employee or an agent – ‘pays a bribe specifically to get business, keep business, or gain a business advantage for your organisation.’ Even if the setting is informal, it’s vital that you keep sight of your professional objectives and conduct yourself accordingly.

SOURCE:inspiringinterns.com