3 Ways a Business Lunch Can Boost Sales
Business lunches are a hidden gem when it comes to strategies that can help boost your company’s sales. The simple practice of hosting a business lunch one of the most effective ways to turn your prospects into customers. Breaking bread while talking business allows you to connect with potential clients in a way that appeals to them on a personal level. They feel less pressured and more open to hearing about how your company could be of benefit to them.
Here are a few ways in which a business lunch can help boost your sales:
1. Alleviate the pressure of a traditional sales pitch. Let’s be honest; traditional sale pitches are often annoying and invasive. The best sale-pitches are ones that don’t feel like sale-pitches at all. When done correctly, that’s exactly what a business lunch is — a sales pitch in disguise. It’s a shared experience over a meal in which both parties come together in a “no pressure” sort of way to discuss the potential of a business relationship. According to the latest research regarding B2B sales, nearly 60% of people said they would be more likely to conduct business with a low-pressure salesperson.
2. Build business relationships and increase customer loyalty. Over the years, studies have shown that people are more likely to do business with people they like. One of the ways to increase your likeability is to allow your clients to get to know you over a business lunch. While it is important to discuss your product and/or service offerings during the meeting, what potential customers really want to know is why they should do business with your company, as opposed to one of your competitors. Discussing business over lunch is a great way to set yourself apart from the competition by showing the attendee(s) that you value their time and appreciate their consideration. And what client doesn’t love to feel appreciated?
3. Make it memorable. There’s a saying that goes, “People will forget what you said. People will forget what you did. But people will never forget how you made them feel”. This statement rings true when it comes to closing business deals. Have you ever been in a business meeting that was so enjoyable that you almost forgot you were in a business meeting? It’s a memorable experience, to say the least. So how can you ensure that you make a meeting a memorable experience? The answer is simple. During lunch, look for ways to connect with your prospective client on a personal level that doesn’t cross any boundaries. You may have a hobby in common, prefer the same type of cuisine, or have a mutual acquaintance. In essence, leaving a lasting impression is the key to making the sale.
The idea of business lunches isn’t new. However, there are many unique and modern tools, like eatNgage for example, that can take your business lunch strategy to the next level and set you apart from the competition. eatNgage takes a modern approach to the traditional business lunch meeting. The platform allows its users to host remote business meetings in a convenient yet personable way. With eatNgage you can “wine and dine” your prospects through a simple process that includes sending out invitations, allowing attendees to select a meal option, and hosting the remote meeting using quality video technology.