Q: I recently asked a partner to have lunch to discuss my internship and the firm in general. When I ask a partner or another co-worker to have lunch, what is the correct thing to do when the check comes? Do I offer to pay or is it expected that he or she will charge it on the company credit card? When I emailed the partner, I said that I would like to get together, and she suggested lunch. I want to avoid any awkward situations when it is time to pay the bill!
A: My answer is that you (the one seeking advice) should ALWAYS offer to pay. Generally I suggest inviting someone for coffee because it’s not expensive. My hunch is that the partner you invited to lunch (congrats on doing that!) will be happy to pay, especially since she suggested lunch, which is also a great sign that she’ll really spend quality time with you. But it’s always polite and appropriate for you to offer to pay. If you offer and she says she is happy to pay, then it’s fine to let her. Just remember to send her a thank you note!
