Closing a Deal at a Bar? This Research Can Help. Rule No. 1: Get to the bar early, so you control who sits where.

We close deals in bars to relax, get away from our routines and make toasting our next success a little easier. But if you are meeting at a bar, choose your location carefully. Research shows control is key and where you sit could make or break a deal.

Avoid the windows.

Researchers find that when we're warmer, we're more likely to judge people as trustworthy and to be generous. Don't order a round of hot mulled wine, but do sit far from drafty doorways or windows.