Business Class

»Entertaining clients at a sporting event is a fun way to build relationships and gain customer loyalty. From baseball, hockey and football to golf and tennis tournaments, Southwest Florida offers a variety of indoor and outdoor entertaining options. But just because you’re going to a sports event doesn’t mean you may leave your manners at home.

If you’re the host, it’s important to set the stage and expectations before you head to the field/court/course. Will parking be included? Will you be entertaining in a box? Will you be paying for all food and beverages or should your guests plan to take extra cash? If you let them know ahead of time, it will prevent any awkwardness at the game.

If you’re attending as a guest of your company, it’s wise to remember that you’re representing your organization. Have fun, but not at the expense of your reputation or your company’s.

Anyone attending the event (host or guest) should follow these guidelines for good sportsmanship and manners.

Cheer for your team, but don’t be obnoxious and don’t boo the opposing team. If you’re attending a tennis match or golf tournament and the officials call for quiet, then do not even whisper, as it can disrupt players’ concentration.

Do not use profanity. This is one way to quickly offend your guests or host and could easily turn a client against you.

If others stand and block your view, be polite. If it’s the majority of the spectators, you should stand. If it’s only a few, you should politely let them know that they’re blocking your view.

Spending leisure time together at a sporting event can boost morale and customer loyalty. And manners are an essential part of the game if you want it to be a winning situation.