We may live in a digital era, but people are still travelling to meet each other. In the business world, making a stellar first impression is crucial and this is precisely why receiving international guests is so important.
Whether you’re welcoming overseas partners, clients, or potential investors to London, wowing them from the get-go sets the tone for a fruitful relationship. A positive initial encounter can pave the way for future collaborations, contracts, and opportunities. It’s like laying down a solid foundation for a skyscraper – the stronger it is, the higher you can build.
When you have the chance to host international guests in London, it’s not just about showing off the sights or sealing a deal; it’s about creating a memorable experience that leaves a lasting impression. This is never just about one meeting or one transaction. Think of it as nurturing a relationship that could blossom into something significant down the line.
So, roll out the red carpet (figuratively, of course) and get ready to wow your international business visitors with these surefire tips.
#1. Pick them up in style
When your international business guests step off the plane in London, give them the VIP treatment right from the start. Arrange for a luxury chauffeur to whisk them away from the airport in style.
Why opt for a luxury chauffeur service? It’s all about providing unparalleled comfort and making them feel truly welcome in the city. Plus, with the spacious and plush interiors of a luxury car, they can catch up on work or simply relax during the commute. After all, first impressions count, and what better way to impress than with a touch of elegance and sophistication right from the start?
#2. Plan a happy snack
After a long journey, your international guests might be feeling weary, stressed, and a bit out of sorts. That’s where a thoughtful snack can save the day.
And what better way to lift spirits than with a sweet treat? Enter chocolate, the ultimate mood booster. Packed with compounds like serotonin and phenylethylamine, chocolate has been scientifically proven to stimulate the release of feel-good hormones in the brain. So, who knew that the frozen hot chocolate at Sette could be the ideal business partners’ welcoming hamper?
#3. Recommend cosy business accommodation
When it comes to accommodating your international business guests, standard hotels just won’t cut it. Business travellers have unique needs that go beyond simply having a place to rest their heads. That’s where business hotels step in.
These establishments are tailored specifically to cater to the demands of corporate travellers with a range of amenities designed to enhance productivity and comfort. Think in-room work facilities, plush bedding for a restful night’s sleep, and soundproof rooms for uninterrupted focus.
#4. Take them out for dinner
What better way to welcome your international business guests to London than with a delicious dinner? A meal together is the perfect opportunity to break the ice, foster meaningful connections, and set the tone for productive discussions ahead.
Where do you take them? Every guest is different so you want to consider factors like cuisine variety, ambience, and proximity to their accommodations. Opt for a restaurant with a refined atmosphere and impeccable service. After all, a memorable dining experience can leave a lasting impression and pave the way for successful business interactions.
#5. Prepare a space for them in your office
If your international business guests are expected to spend some time at your office, you want to make sure they have a dedicated workspace.
Ultimately, you want to start planning ahead and setting up a quiet desk or booking a meeting room for their use. This will demonstrate your attention to detail and commitment to their needs.
Besides, providing a quiet environment where they can focus without distractions on their own work shows both welcome and respect. Isn’t this the best combination to build a long-lasting work relationship?
#6. Schedule some time for tourist visits
Are your guests visiting London for the first time? Then it pays off to blend business with pleasure by scheduling some tourist visits. It’s a fantastic way to showcase the city’s rich culture and history while also providing your guests with memorable experiences outside of the boardroom.
You could, for instance, arrange for business meetings at convenient times during the day, such as in the morning. This leaves the afternoon for sightseeing adventures.
What are the must-see attractions in London for international visitors? You want to include iconic landmarks like the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and the British Museum, where they can immerse themselves in centuries of history and culture. But, you can also encourage them to explore with stroll along the bustling streets of Covent Garden or a ride on the London Eye offers panoramic views of the city’s skyline. For night owls, a visit to the West End for a world-class theatre production can be the perfect way to unwind at the end of the day.
#7. Plan a teambuilding social event together
Teambuilding events are not just for business teams. They are also a nice and easy way to break the ice with business visitors who are staying over. What does a business-partner-friendly event look like? Have you considered organising an escape room game to foster camaraderie and strengthen bonds with your international business guests? These activities provide an opportunity to work together towards a common goal while having fun, promoting collaboration and communication skills in a relaxed setting.
The good thing about escape rooms, is that a lot of local businesses in London are designed for teambuilding activities. Teambuilding escape room games are especially effective as they require participants to problem-solve, think creatively, and rely on each other’s strengths to succeed. Moreover, they offer a safe social environment for visitors, steering away from the pressure of excessive alcohol consumption commonly associated with traditional networking events.
Can you win a business guest over with a little planning and organising? Naturally, you want to have tangible business argument and activities to earn their approval. But considering activities that will bring you together and help build a strong relationship can be a game-changer. Ultimately, London is a fantastic backdrop for a business bond, so why not make business meetings a little different?
