Check, Please
According to the New York Times, the new recession etiquette makes it less likely for anyone at a business lunch to say, “Check, please,” or to immediately grab for the check once it’s delivered to the table. “Awkward” has replaced “Power” in the lunch that just a short time ago prompted what some call “expense account one-upmanship.”
Here’s some advice at no charge.
– Agree when arranging the lunch that you’ll split the bill.
– Order nothing but a glass of tap water.
– Take a brown bag.
– Offer to flip for the bill.
– Get a fast food take-out and eat in the park.
– Pick up the check until you’ve exhausted your expense account.
– When discussing lunch, wait for the other person to actually extend the invitation.
– Stop going to lunch.
– Feign illness as lunch is winding down.
– Arm wrestle for the right not to pay.
– Go to the restroom and don’t return to the table.
These are tough times, particularly for the masters of the universe and those who used to wanna be.
About Chris Parker
Chris Parker's practice focuses on the representation and counseling of companies in matters pertaining to the workplace and the protection of their intellectual property and trade secrets. In addition to serving as an advocate for clients, Mr. Parker is also trained as a mediator and frequently serves as a third-party neutral.
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About Jimmy Daniel
Jimmy Daniel provides counseling to businesses of all sizes related to the employment relationship. He assists in the drafting of employment agreements, policies, and handbooks, as well as provides guidance related to compliance with federal, state, and local legislation such as the Fair Labor Standards Act and the Family and Medical Leave Act.
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About Larry Bridgesmith
While serving in an Of Counsel relationship with the firm, Mr. Bridgesmith also serves as the Executive Director at the Institute for Conflict Resolution at Lipscomb University and as an officer and principal in Strategic Resolutions Group, LLC. In these roles, Mr. Bridgesmith brings over 30 years of legal experience in dispute resolution and innovative workplace strategies to clients, students and business entities alike.
Read more about Larry Bridgesmith