In the world of business, deals don’t always get sealed in the boardroom. Sometimes, the most meaningful connections—and the strongest partnerships—are forged over a shared meal. Vikki Nicolai La Crosse, a seasoned entrepreneur and business strategist, understands the power of breaking bread when it comes to building authentic trust. Her philosophy is simple: relationships come first, and few things create space for honesty and openness like good food and genuine conversation.
The Lost Art of the Business Meal
In today’s fast-paced world of digital meetings and tight deadlines, the idea of sitting down for a leisurely meal might seem outdated. But Vikki Nicolai La Crosse reminds us that the traditional business lunch or dinner isn’t just a formality—it’s a strategic advantage.
There’s something inherently human about sharing a table. Walls come down. People feel more relaxed and open. Whether you’re sipping wine at a cozy local bistro or enjoying a high-end tasting menu, the setting creates an atmosphere where real dialogue can unfold.
In her experience, Vikki has seen major business moves initiated not from a pitch deck, but from authentic, face-to-face conversations where trust was built naturally.
Dining as a Trust-Building Strategy
Trust isn’t built overnight. It grows in moments of sincerity, shared stories, and subtle understanding. A business meal offers a rare opportunity to observe someone’s character—the way they treat the waitstaff, their level of attentiveness, their comfort in a social setting. These little cues tell you a lot about a person.
According to a Harvard Business Review, social interactions like meals can deepen trust and cooperation among professionals. That’s exactly why Vikki recommends using meals as more than just a social courtesy—they’re a chance to establish a deeper foundation for your working relationships.
It’s Not About the Menu, It’s About the Moment
While a great meal is always welcome, Vikki Nicolai La Crosse emphasizes that the setting doesn’t need to be overly extravagant. What matters most is the intention behind the meeting.
Sometimes a quiet lunch at a neighborhood café can spark more genuine conversation than a high-powered dinner downtown. Vikki encourages professionals to focus less on impressing and more on connecting.
She advises being present, listening well, and asking meaningful questions. “It’s not about selling,” she says. “It’s about showing who you are and learning who they are. That’s where the real trust comes from.”
Wine as a Conversation Catalyst
There’s a reason why wine has long been a staple in professional dining—it softens the mood and encourages open dialogue. While moderation is always key, Vikki shares that offering a glass of wine can set the tone for a relaxed and enjoyable conversation.
Of course, not everyone drinks, and that’s okay. The point isn’t the alcohol—it’s the gesture of hospitality. Whether it’s sparkling water or a cabernet, sharing a drink is about pausing, toasting, and acknowledging the shared experience.
And those moments often lead to stories—about travel, family, or even career lessons. It’s in these personal exchanges that the seeds of trust are planted.
Why Face Time Still Matters
In a Zoom-heavy world, it’s easy to forget the irreplaceable value of face-to-face interaction. Victoria Nicolai , a firm believer in personal connection, often emphasizes how non-verbal cues, body language, and tone can’t be fully conveyed over a screen.
There’s power in sitting across from someone, making eye contact, and laughing together. These interactions stick in our memory. They humanize us and make us more relatable.
Even one meaningful in-person meal can do more for a business relationship than months of emails and virtual calls.
The Table as a Strategic Tool
A shared meal can transform the dynamic between colleagues, clients, or collaborators. Away from the formalities of an office, people tend to be more genuine, more attentive, and more willing to engage in real conversation.
It’s in these relaxed environments that ideas flow freely, barriers lower, and unexpected connections form. A well-timed lunch or dinner can open the door to opportunities that might never surface in a typical meeting, making the dining table one of the most underrated tools in the business toolkit.
The Follow-Up: Sealing the Deal with Grace
After a successful business meal, Vikki recommends following up with a thoughtful message—something that reflects the tone and topics of your conversation. Was there a shared joke or interesting debate? Refer to it. This creates continuity and signals that you were engaged and present.
This kind of follow-up doesn’t need to be formal. In fact, a casual tone often resonates more. A quick text, an email, or even a handwritten note can leave a lasting impression.
According to a Forbes article, these follow-ups play a critical role in establishing rapport and ensuring the relationship grows beyond that one interaction.
Conclusion
In a world full of quick texts and virtual meetings, there’s something refreshingly powerful about sitting down for a meal and having a real conversation. As Vikki Nicolai La Crosse demonstrates time and again, the table isn’t just where we eat—it’s where trust is built, deals are sparked, and partnerships truly begin.
Let the wine flow, the food be shared, and the relationships flourish.
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