Business schools teach many things, but the curricula rarely include pointers for business lunches.
Lunch meetings should be a chance for you to contribute your skills and knowledge — the last thing you want is to be remembered for ordering a comically large entree or splattering messy sauce all over the table. Here are some general guidelines to keep the focus where it belongs.
* Avoid garlic. Unless you're at an Italian place that already smells like garlic, the pungent fragrance might linger in the air and annoy attendees who are sensitive to strong smells. It also might leave you smelling like garlic for hours.
* Skip spicy foods. Being an adventurous eater is great, but they can lead to a red face, teary eyes, and even make you sweat profusely. Preserve your composure and stick with mild options while you're on the clock.
* Don't order messy foods that require you to use your hands. Ribs might sound great, but you'll end up kicking yourself if you get a splotch of barbecue sauce on your shirt. Handheld foods like tacos or messy hamburgers that drip condiments and toppings might attract too much attention.
* Be mindful of price. Ordering the most expensive thing on the menu can send a bad message, especially if someone else is picking up the tab. Pick something moderately priced.
The best approach is to look for menu items that won't make a mess or capture a lot of attention, like a plate of grilled chicken and vegetables.
