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Many of us are familiar with appropriate table manners and social mores within our personal lives. Remember to execute the same good judgment about business etiquette procedures when hosting a luncheon or dinner meeting. It’s not enough to keep elbows off the table or to place a napkin within our laps, although these things are helpful. Before we get that deer-in-the-headlights look, what should we do?
It’s important to be at least 10 minutes early, rather than just barely on time. This is especially true for hosts who lead business functions that involve food. If menu options are available, they should be decided upon in advance (in lieu of food allergies, for example). It’s a nice gesture to greet guests personally at the entrance or the server can direct them to the table. Furthermore, it’s important to devote some extra time to inform the wait staff about the guest check to avoid any confusion when the meeting adjourns. As a general rule the host may want to bear the cost of everyone’s meal.
Everyone should try to refrain from eating until each dish is prepared and plated. This depends on the number of group attendants, as well as the host’s preference. For a large meeting, it’s suitable for everyone to begin eating after a few people have started nibbling. It’s customary to mirror the actions of the meeting’s host, such as ordering a beverage or an additional dessert.
The purpose of business luncheons and dinners frequently serve to obtain new clientele. So keep the conversation light until the meal is completed. Sit in a quieter location further away from noisy activity. When alcoholic beverages are approved, please use discretion. Gluttony in this case is unprofessional.
While it’s been said that rules are generally made to be broken, there are some that are flexible and others that shouldn’t be. Bon Appetit!
