A VC in Vacationland

12: The Elements of Great Managing (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Warning: this post contains mercenary behavior!

One thing I learned a long time ago as a consultant was that you always picked up the bill at a bar or restaurant, whether you were out with a colleague, client or prospect. Why? It's always useful to have people feel indebted to you and picking up the tab is a easy way to accomplish this.

Picking up the tab with a customer or prospect always makes sense. You are either doing business with someone, or want to cultivate a relationship, so paying the bill is a strategic investment.

The same holds true when you are out with employees, partners or business friends. One never knows when you will need a favor from any of them, so why not be the good guy and grab the check?

It's worked for me for years. Remember, always pick up the bill…