Lunch For Beginners

LINK Intern Lunch Basics

Take note to all eight tips listed in this tip sheet from www.thinkintern.com. Click the link above for the original article.

8 Tips For Lunch With Your Boss - Everything you need to know for a flawless business lunch.


It’s 11:59 in the morning and everyone in the office is starving. Whether you’re one on one with your boss or dining with the whole office, here are some tips to make your next business lunch with your boss go smoothly.


Always Accept – If your boss or superior invites you to lunch, always accept. This is an amazing opportunity to get to know your boss, make connections, learn more about your industry, and probably eat some good food. Even if you have plans, when an invitation for lunch is extended, you need to make it a top priority.


Who’s Pick? – One of the most difficult questions that you’ll be asked is, “where do you want to go for lunch?” In general, your boss usually has something in mind or has a few favorite local places, so you can always politely return the question. If you must decide, err on the side of casual and convenient.


Be Professional – You may be out of the office and in an informal environment, but remember who you’re with and what you’re doing. Amid a good conversation, it can be tempting to slip into old habits and tendencies – be careful! You can enjoy yourself and have fun, but never say anything that you might later regret. Even while you’re “on your break,” you need to remain professional.


Order food – By noon, you’ve been in the office since early morning and everyone knows you’re hungry. Don’t be tempted to pass on lunch or to accept the invitation but not order. It’s okay to be price conscious when ordering but don’t make others uncomfortable by simply ordering a water and a side salad. Remember, you’re eating lunch with your boss, so eat!


Be Price Conscious – Going out to lunch with your boss is like a date – minus the flirting and the movie after. When ordering, be respectful and price conscious. When everyone is ordering sandwiches, don’t order the filet mignon. As we’ve discussed before, order and eat but make sure it’s not the most expensive thing on the menu.


Eat Effortlessly – Some foods require a lot of work and concentration to eat. Some foods are extremely messy or will leave your fingers covered in sauce. These are generally foods you should avoid. Order foods that allow you to eat effortlessly – that is, to eat easily while still being able to focus primarily on the conversation.


Relax – Stop fidgeting in your seat. Why are you cracking you knuckles? Your boss and/or office invited you to lunch because they want to have a nice time, eat some food, and get to know you better. Lunch with your boss isn’t an interview so don’t be nervous. Have a great conversation and try to learn a little more about who your boss is outside the office.


The Bill – You’re the office intern – no one is expecting you to pay. When the bill comes, be polite and respectful. Just like your mom always told you, say “thank you” and if you had a good time, be sure to tell your boss.


So there you go, the next time your asked to go to lunch with your boss, you’ll know what to say and what to do. Relax, it’s just lunch.