Business Dining Etiquette Tips
Ordering
- When in doubt, follow the lead of the host
- Don’t order the most expensive item
- Order simply
- Avoid finger foods or difficult foods that are difficult to eat
Eating Styles
- Continental or European style: cutting the food with the right hand and using the left hand to hold the food while cutting and when eating.
- American style: cutting the food with the right hand and holding the food with the left, then switching hands to eat with the right hand.
- Resting and finished utensil positions
Pre-Dinner Etiquette
- Arrive on time
- Call ahead if you know you will be late
- Wait 15 minutes before calling to check on the arrival status of your dinner partners
Sitting Down
- Do not place any bags, purses, sunglasses, cell phones, or briefcases on the table
- When you are all seated, gently unfold your napkin and place it on your lap, folded in half with the fold towards your waist
- Keep utensils in the same order they appear on the table