There is a bit of a stereotype about all the business that supposedly gets conducted on golf courses, during racquetball games, and at the health club—some of this is actually true and recreational activities can be a great time to work on business, but sometimes it can be inappropriate.
Recreation really can be a great time to make contacts and get some business done—people are relaxed and feeling open and conversational, there seems to be less pressure when you are out of the office having a meal or walking a golf course on a lovely sunny day. It does take some skill, however, and some pretty specific social skills to be able to figure out when it is a good time to talk business, and when it is best to just play. Those who are best at it know how to warm up with some small talk and ease into business conversations. This way, if there is resistance or no interest, then you can ease off without appearing too pushy.
Additionally, if everyone knows from the onset that the goal of going to lunch, or playing golf, is to talk business (“Let’s get together over breakfast on Tuesday morning to talk about the contract”) then it is absolutely appropriate to focus on business. Getting out of the office or your home office can actually level the playing field and be very conducive to discussion.
It is even okay to bring up business at sporting events, family reunions, and the town parade—but it is best to ease into it and be as casual as possible until you see how the other person responds. Networking is a good thing, but harassing and trying to slam people into talking about business when they are not into it—is not. Watch the social cues and you should be able to make the most of mixing business and recreation.
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