Guest Blogger Andrea Lucas
Loudoun County Chamber of Commerce
Nothing is worse than having high expectations of an important business meeting over lunch, only to realize that everyone at the table is talking to someone else—that wasn’t invited to lunch—on their phones.
Technology offers plenty of benefits and opportunities for business professionals. But nothing replaces face-to-face time with other live human beings. According to Common Sense Media, more than half (58 percent) of Americans are concerned that mobile devices are hurting their conversations.
In order to give everyone the courtesy and respect that they deserve, sometimes it takes “extreme” measures. Here are a few tips to getting everyone on the same page:
1: Set expectations for the meeting
Lead by example and tell people at the start that you’ve either left your phone in the car or put it on silent so you can be there in the moment. You can’t control how other people will act, but it sets the expectation up front.
2: Leave devices out of reach
Emails. Texts. Score updates. Friend requests. Phones are our portal to the world, and the first thing we reach for in transition moments or when a conversation goes stale. But if we are going to create an atmosphere to connect, having devices within reach is very tempting and often distracting if someone is feeling the pull of needing to answer that one last email. Purposely leaving phones in the car is a great way to keep distractions at bay. If you’re with friends, you can even put the phones in the middle of the table, and whoever reaches for it first, has to pay for everyone’s meals!
3: Ask good questions
Everyone brings their own schedules and baggage to every interaction. Keeping the questions flowing not only helps keep you engaged, but also distracts from the stress that other people are feeling. Avoid “yes” or “no” responses by asking open-ended questions that require thought. Good conversation is contagious!
4: Be patient
Certain people may not be on board with the device-free meals. Try not to take it personally if someone needs to take an important call or text. Ultimately, you can help make the meal and conversation more engaging than their phone.
This week is Northern Virginia Restaurant Week, and local restaurants have great deals for business meetings, happy hours or a night out with the family.
Check out the website to see if your family can enjoy a night out device free, while supporting a local business.
