It’s a big day at the office. You’ve had a meeting with your biggest potential client marked on your calendar and today is finally the day.
After rehearsing every move to ensure a smooth delivery, and reviewing your pitch deck and key talking points, you are ready to land new business. Now all you have to do is persuade them to close the deal. They’ve agreed to meet over lunch to discuss the proposal.
Increase your chances of closing the sale by making sure your client feels calm and focused during the meeting. This starts with serving the right foods.
Fish
Serving oily fish like salmon as the entrée is a smart move. George Krucik, MD, says that consuming foods high in omega-3s reduces feelings of stress and anxiety. Since stress levels are often higher in sales meetings, feed your client some fish to help combat these symptoms to make sure they feel most at ease to focus on the meeting. People think more clearly when they’re not distracted by feelings of stress.
Nuts
Add a walnut garnish to salmon and balance their hormones. Walnuts contain alpha-linolenic acid and other polyphenols which keep cortisol (a stress hormone) in check. This healthy source of fat also keeps your adrenaline at bay, which can rise when experiencing feelings of nervousness. This fish and nut power combo will keep everyone relaxed.
Green Vegetables
Including leafy greens, such as asparagus or broccoli, as the vegetable of choice might not be a bad idea. Rich in folic acid, these veggies increase the amount of serotonin (a neurotransmitter that improves mood and social behavior) present in the body. Studies show that when someone is in a good mood they are more likely to respond positively to an offer.
According to Scientific American, “the journal Cognition, a group of German researchers have shown that people’s mood can strongly influence how they respond to this hypothetical scenario.” Researchers found that participants in a positive mood were more likely to agree to a question compared to those in a negative mood.
Whole Grains
A side of whole grains, like brown rice, wild rice, or quinoa, not only makes for a complete meal, but it provides powerful cognitive benefits as well. These complex carbohydrates provide a steady source of energy for your brain, which makes for an alert client who can focus and concentrate optimally.
When your client is focused on you they will have a better chance of receiving your message. And when the outcome of a pitch is determined by how well you deliver your message, you want to make sure your client is “all ears.”
Water
We often underrate the power of water. This beverage provides many of the same benefits as these foods. Staying hydrated keeps your mood positive and a couple glasses of water spikes energy levels. We also stay mentally sharp when well hydrated. Dehydration can reverse all of these effects on the body, so choose water as your drink of choice.
With a nutrient dense meal and a happy client, you’ll surely close the deal. Try this strategy for your next sales meeting over lunch!
This article has been edited and condensed.
Dan Marzullo, NASM CPT, is a fitness enthusiast with a strong passion for teaching people how to live healthier lifestyles. He received his Bachelor’s Degree in Kinesiology from Colorado Mesa University. Dan is a fitness coach who helps entrepreneurs and business professionals reach their fitness goals. He is also a speaker, certified personal trainer, and the owner of Fit Bodies. Connect with @danfitbodies on Twitter.
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