Proper Etiquette
Having good table manners is essential for any businessperson who wants to make a positive impression.

• Arrive on time
  • what to do if you are early or late

• Ordering Drinks

• Ordering Meals
  • keep in the mid-price range
  • avoid unfamiliar foods

• How to get the waiter's attention
  • catch the waiter's eye or discretely raise hand to face
  • never snap fingers or yell for "waiter"

• Napkin placement
  • Place in lap
  • unfold, do not snap napkin

• Excusing yourself
  • napkin to left of plate or on chair
  • quietly excuse yourself

The Actual Dinner

• Know proper table setting and the proper utensils for each course

• Keep elbows off table when eating
  • elbows on table are acceptable when utensils are not in hands

• Never hold a drink in one hand and eat with the other

• Only cut one bite of food at a time

• Wait for the host to start eating before picking up your fork
  • usually a considerate host will urge others to go ahead and start

• What to do if faced with an unfamiliar food or food you don't like?

• How to deal with a spilled drink or food and dropped utensils?

• Avoid doggy bags

• Napkin on table signals meal is finished
  • wait for the host to do so

• Host will pay unless a predetermined arrangement
  • will also leave all tips
  • offer to tip coat attendant/valet
  • this is a good time to give your business card