Etiquette and Table Manners

Table Manners

• Keep your elbows off the table and your hands visible.
• Use your napkin to blot your mouth and wipe your hands before and after eating.
• Chew with your mouth closed and avoid making loud noises while eating.
• Do not talk with your mouth full or interrupt others while they are speaking.
• Wait for everyone to receive their food before starting to eat.
• Pass dishes to the right when serving yourself from a communal dish.
• Do not double dip or share food from your plate with others.

Place Setting

• A basic place setting typically includes:
  • Plate
  • Water glass
  • Wine glass (if applicable)
  • Napkin
  • Forks (salad fork and dinner fork)
  • Knives (dinner knife and butter knife)
  • Spoon
• The forks are placed on the left of the plate, with the salad fork on the outside.
• The knives are placed on the right of the plate, with the dinner knife on the inside.
• The spoon is placed on the right of the knives or above the plate.

Business Dining

• Make a good impression by being punctual, respectful, and attentive.
• Keep the conversation light and professional, avoiding controversial topics.
• Order wisely, choosing dishes that are easy to eat and not too messy.
• Avoid using your phone or laptop during the meal.
• Be mindful of your body language, maintaining good posture and avoiding crossing your arms.
• Show appreciation for the host's hospitality by thanking them and offering to pay the bill.

Formal Dining

• Men should wear a jacket and tie, while women should wear formal attire.
• Wait for the host or hostess to indicate where to sit.
• Use formal table manners, such as keeping your napkin on your lap and not leaning on the table.
• Address your hosts by title (Mr./Mrs./Ms./Dr.) and last name until invited to use their first name.
• Engage in polite conversation, avoiding politics and religion.
• Show appreciation for the meal by complimenting the host or hostess.

Cross-Cultural Etiquette

• Research the cultural norms and customs of the country or region you are visiting.
• Be respectful of differences in table manners, such as:
  • In some cultures, it is considered impolite to finish a meal completely.
  • In others, it is customary to use your hands to eat.
• Learn a few key phrases in the local language, such as "hello," "thank you," and "excuse me."
• Be mindful of dietary restrictions and customs, such as halal or kosher foods.
• Show respect for the local culture by adapting to their customs and traditions.