Business Lunch Etiquette

Professional should be careful in business lunch with your peers, recruiters, clients or partners. Individual behavior or acts reveals much about the personality thus following are tips to be considered in maintaining proper dining etiquette.

• At the lunch table, introduction of all, is the basic manners
• Once everyone is seated do not forget to place the napkin on the lap.
• Sit up straight and don’t tip your chair back.
• Do keep your elbows off the table.
• Never ask too many question related to menu to the waiter.
• Give chance to the other in giving orders.
• Prefer ordering familiar food.
• Avoid ordering too expensive food item.
• Avoid alcohol  drink
• Prefer eating from the outside and work your way in.
• Remember solids on your left (bread plate), liquids on your right (water, ice tea, coffee).
• Cut your meat or meal one piece at a time.
• Don’t speak with your mouth full.
• Listen more and speak only when required.
• Maintain good eye contact
• Remember licking fingers is completely unprofessional.
• Once finished eating, place the knife and fork prongs down side by side on the plate with the handles.
• Never use toothpicks.
• Make sure you thank the host for the meal.
• Do not forget to shake hands before you leave with good smile.