A summer barbeque is a great opportunity to let clients get to know you a little more informally. But remember: they will still be assessing your professional skills based on your behavior at the event.
“The average person can’t judge how good their advisor is at how they do their job,” says Joanne Blake, owner of Style for Success Inc. in Edmonton. “But the way you conduct yourself will give them a clue.”
Follow these tips to enjoy a casual barbeque with clients without roasting your professional image:
> Dress appropriately
Think more “business casual” than “weekend casual” when dressing for a barbeque with clients.
Leave the “Daisy Duke” short-shorts and sloppy cargo shorts at home, Blake says. Wear tailored-looking shorts or a neat pair of jeans or slacks
As well, think twice before wearing white or light colours, Blake says. They often act as magnets for stains.
> Eat carefully
Barbeque foods are always tasty but they can be messy, so be conscious of your eating habits.
If you’re eating a kebab, remove the food from the skewer. Cut a hamburger in half before eating it to make it more manageable and to avoid spilling condiments everywhere.
Provide wet naps or hand sanitizers, she says, and lots of napkins. Never, under any circumstances, lick your fingers.
> Go easy on the drinks
Know your limits when it comes to alcohol: you don’t want to be remembered from the barbeque for the wrong reasons.
Some guests won’t eat before a barbecue because they know there will be a lot of food, Blake says. Between their empty stomachs and the sun, alcohol can go to their heads more quickly.
You may decide it’s best not to drink at all or to at least stop at one or two drinks.
> Get out and mingle
Even at a barbeque for your clients, there may be a few people you don’t know. Make sure you say hello to everyone at the event.
“Be sociable and mix and mingle with everyone, ” Blake says, “and not just those you know.” Introduce yourself to people you haven’t met before or find someone to make an introduction.
> Avoid talking shop
Keep the conversation light and avoid talking about business. Give a business card only if someone asks for it — and be discreet.