Wait until everyone is served before you begin eating. - Colin Hamilton/Freelance Photographer

While the boardroom is typically the place where big deals are hatched, those formed at business dinners can be so much sweeter.

According to Marlene Bardowell, executive director of the Commission on Science and Technology, "It's a more relaxed atmosphere and you're focused." Though business meetings are technically an extension of one's working hours, she notes that the fact that they are held outside the confines of the office, makes them so much more palatable.

These sentiments are supported by vice-president of marketing at Pan Caribbean Financial services, Tanya Miller. "You get a better idea of your business partner. It's more social and you know how best to meet their needs out of the context of pure dollars and cents, though that is what it essentially boils down to. It tends to be more productive and you can have a win-win meal. If nothing is formalised, at least a fruitful discussion has started."

Bardowell and Miller agree that sometimes business dinners are necessary, as there are simply not enough hours in the normal workday. "Between nine to five you have less time and there is a lot more going on," notes Miller. Bardowell agrees that during business dinners you are also more focused. "It is more productive, as you are more focused. You let your hair down and what you get out of people then, you would not have in a hard-lined boardroom."

Building a relationship

Miller notes that it is also a great opportunity to get to know the person you are working with. "Business dinners give you the opportunity to build a relationship with your client. It deals more with the person behind the transaction."

However, Miller notes that there are some business dinners that run as if they were taking place in an office.

Despite the relatively relaxed setting of a business dinner, it is still a business meeting, so certain protocols should still be observed. As The Gleaner-sponsored Kingston Restaurant Week begins this Saturday, it's the perfect opportunity to enjoy the week while getting down to business.

If it's a large meeting, try not to shout across the table to have a conversation. - Winston Sill/Freelance Photographer

Etiquette

While it's a business meeting, there are certain protocols that should be observed. Here are a few tips that will save you from blowing that big deal. Also, remember that you are representing your employer.

Don't settle for being on time. Be early. If you arrive before your party, it may give you time to freshen up or get your thoughts together.

Make sure cellphones are off. Though you're not in the office, it is still a meeting.

It is OK to have a glass of wine or a drink, but not too much. This can embarrass you or your company and ruin the deal. To be on the safe side, it may be better to have a non-alcoholic beverage.

Remember simple table manners. If it's a very formal restaurant and you're not sure which fork (utensil) to use, if you start from the outside in, you should be fine.

Never ask for a doggie bag.

Make sure you're properly attired.

The person who extends the invitation usually pays.

Never talk with food in your mouth. If you need to make a point, do so between bites. And chew with your mouth closed!

Wait until everyone is served before you begin eating.

Try not to belch loudly.