Washington - The ways in which business gets done in today's
global marketplace is evolving at a rapid rate. Even in the midst of new
paradigms and emerging technologies, one thing remains constant: big deals
often come together over meals.
Given that a simple faux pas at the table can make the
difference between being shown the money or the door, it's time to review the
dos and don'ts of business dining.
1. Be on time
Timeliness is among the first and most significant
impressions you can make at a meal or event. If you are the host, being there
first to greet your guests demonstrates a level of professionalism and
consideration that will be noticed and appreciated.
Similarly, if you are a guest, arriving on time makes a very
positive statement about your expectations for the meal and the relationship.
No matter what Hollywood or style gurus might have you believe, nothing demonstrates
a lack of respect more than being "fashionably late".
2. Turn off all devices before being seated
Whether you're the guest or the host, your dining companions
should have your undivided attention during your time together. Your phone
should never leave your pocket or purse during a meal, let alone see the top of
the table. This is your chance to demonstrate that you value your companion
enough to give 100% of your time and attention during the meal.
3. Follow good form
Practising good form at the dining table is a subtle but
effective way to demonstrate your level of professionalism. Simple rules to
consider include the following:
- Always open your napkin and place it on your lap below
table level. Keep it on your lap at all times, not tucked into your collar. If
you need to leave the table for a period of time, place it on the seat of your
chair. At the end of the meal, place it loosely to the left of your plate.
- Use flatware (cutlery) from the outside in. Once you pick
up and use a piece of silverware, it shouldn't touch the table. When you are
finished with your meal, place your knife and fork on the plate so that the
handles are on the lower right edge (20 after the hour on a clock) and the tips
on the upper left (10:00). This allows a waiter to see you are finished and
assists during the removal of the plate.
- Never "borrow" food from another's place
setting. When you are seated, assess your setting with BMW (bread, meal, water)
in mind. That is, your bread plate is always on your left, your meal is in the
middle, and your water is always on your right. This will save you the
embarrassment of inadvertently using or drinking from your companion's place
setting.
4. Savour the opportunity and the meal
While you may be on the clock at work during a business
meal, don't let the clock dictate the pace of conversation or the speed with
which you enjoy the dining experience.
Instead, focus on making the most of this opportunity to
connect and build your business relationship. If you are hosting, never
pressure or hurry your guest in any way. They should feel like a welcomed and
wanted guest.
5. Mother knows best
Remember what your mother taught you. That's right! All
those bits of motherly advice still apply: sit up straight, take small bites,
chew with your mouth closed, never talk with your mouth full, participate in
the conversation, keep your toys (ie your phone, purse, notebook, etc) off the
table, and for goodness' sake, be nice to your server.
While knowing how to conduct oneself at the table may seem small when negotiating an important deal or discussion, in reality it's a valuable asset. No matter where you go in the world or how high up the ladder you climb, discerning business professionals will always recognise and respect your professionalism.
- Reuters
* Pamela Eyring is the president and director of The Protocol School of Washington PSOW.L, which provides professional business etiquette and international protocol training. Opinions expressed are her own.