Hosting a business dinner is a great way to make a good impression and build rapport with clients. Thinking through the details in advance will go a long way toward a good evening and a good impression of the host – you. In September’s Illinois Bar Journal, Karen Erger, vice president at Lockton Companies, breaks down do’s and don’ts of hosting a business dinner.

For starters, when choosing a place to break bread with clients or other business associates, consider what you’re trying to accomplish with this particular meal. If it’s to get to know your guests, do your best to choose a restaurant at which you’ll be able to hear each other without screaming. This can be a challenge. Excessive noise is the top complaint of restaurant diners, edging out service, crowds, and even the food. You can try to request a quiet table in advance or ask to move to a quieter place if you're seated next to a large, rowdy party. Also consider choosing an early reservation time, which may allow you to avoid the restaurant's busiest and noisiest times. A 6 p.m. reservation may not be an ideal choice for date night, but your guests may be grateful for an early business dinner and the opportunity to get home at a more reasonable hour.

Read more in the September issue of the Illinois Bar Journal.