According to Bloomberg Businessweek reporter Joel Stein, the three-martini lunch is back. (“Return of the 3-Martini Lunch,” msnbc.com, 10/01/10.)  Its return has nothing to do with business people wanting to walk in the shoes of Mad Men’s Don Draper. Rather, according to Stein, when mixologists (aka bartenders) make complicated drinks from esoteric sounding ingredients, people conducting business over lunch feel less guilty about downing one or two or more.

 

If you’re new to the workforce—and even more importantly, if you’re trying to get your foot in the door at some place of employment—despite the Businessweek story, skip alcohol at lunch. For an intern, summer associate or new hire, even one bottle of beer or a single glass of wine can loosen inhibitions and make you just a tad less sharp. By sticking with soda, water, or iced tea, you ensure that you look and act your professional best. You're less likely to break one of those all important rules of business etiquette.

 

Of course, the day you land that big client or close the big deal, you should feel free to organize a celebratory lunch. Until that day arrives, consider saving your martinis, mojitos and Manhattans for after work get-togethers.