CAREER TIP: Want to grow your business by 2,000 %?

Robin Jay, author of THE ART OF THE BUSINESS LUNCH, did just that -- by feeding her clients a nice lunch.

“When you introduce a social situation into a business relationship, “ says Jay, “you change the dynamic you have with a client by building a stronger foundation.”

The result: Increased business.

Jeffrey Gitomer, author of THE LITTLE RED BOOK OF SELLING, agrees, saying: “If you make a sale, you can earn a commission. If you make a friend, you can earn a fortune.”

Jay has gone on over 3000 business lunches, and has much advice on this subject. She reminds:

1. ALWAYS make a reservation ahead of time.

2. Pick a place with top notch service, fabulous menu, great acoustics, NOT too expensive or too cheap, and with just the right amount of celeb/mover/shaker sitings.

3. Whenever possible, pick up your client and bring him back from the business lunch.

4. Dress appropriately, so you send the right message.

5. ALWAYS turn off your cell before lunch.

6. Be prepared and informed so you can carry on a casual, topical conversation.

7. Ask friendly questions, referring back to the classic “who, what, when, where and why” to keep your client’s stories flowing, and show you are sincerely interested.

8. Help your client feel good about their job, by sharing stories about how hard others have it at their jobs -- without naming names, so your client knows you respect privacy.

9. Follow the “leader” when it comes to alcohol and dessert.

10. NEVER discuss your health with a client – unless it’s good.

11. Stop eating when your client/everyone else stops.

12. NEVER pay for a business lunch with cash.

13. ALWAYS thank your clients for taking the time to have lunch with you by email or phone.