Dinner Etiquette originates from Africa
It is extremely important to use proper table manners during a meal to make a lasting good impression.
Table Setting:
When you are presented with a large selection of eating utensils, remember to “start from the outside and work your way in.”
Napkin
* Soon after sitting down at the table, you should put your napkin down on your lap. However, be sure to follow the lead of the host and/or hostess.
* The napkin should stay on your lap throughout the duration of the meal. If for some reason you need to leave, be sure to place your napkin on the left of your plate or on your chair. The waiter and/or waitress will know that you will be returning.
* If the host places their napkin on the table, this represents the end of the meal and you should also place your napkin immediately on the table.
Ordering & Being Served
* It is not appropriate to order the most expensive item from the menu. It is also not appropriate to order appetizers or desserts. This is only done when the host encourages your to order these items from the menu.
* It is usually the best idea to not order alcohol, even if the interviewer orders alcohol. If you do order alcohol, be sure to drink it in moderation.
* Avoid ordering items that are messy and hard to eat (i.e. spaghetti and French onion soup).
* Make sure everyone at the table has their meal before being to eat. Only start eating if the individual who has not been served encourages your to start eating without them.
During the Meal
* Eat slowly and only cut small bites off of your food at a time.
* Chew with your mouth closed and do not speak to others while you have food in your mouth.
* Pass all food items to the person on your right. If you are the one starting the passing of the bread basket, it is proper to offer the person to your left some bread, take some for yourself, and then pass the bread to the person on your right.
* Bread should be eaten by tearing off small pieces and buttering them individually. Be sure you do not cut your bread with your knife or eat it whole.
* Salt and pepper should be passed together and should be passed with one in each hand. If you are asked to pass the salt and pepper, do not use them before passing them to someone else.
* Be sure to taste your food before adding salt and pepper.
* Do not use more than two packets of sweetener per meal.
* Do not clean your plate. It is proper to leave a few bites of food on your plate.
When You Finish Your Meal
* When you have finished eating your meal, do not push your plate aside or stack them on top of each other. It is proper to leave the plate sitting where they are currently.
* Be sure to lay your knife and fork side by side on the plate to they point to the 10:00 and 4:00 positions if you were to be looking at a clock face. This tells the waiter and/or waitress you have completed your meal.
* The person who initiated the idea of the meal is usually the one who pays for everything.
* Always remember to thank your host and/or hostess.
Source: http://www.thiel.edu/career_services/business-etiquette.htm
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