If you grew up watching Youtube videos off your mum’s mobile phone then went away to college and shared pizza with your roomies while propped on a sofa bed, you probably missed out on some of the most practical lessons on what you should and should not do at a dining table.
Knowing which glass to use or what to do with your mobile phone is not just about table manners. In the eye of your client, it can convey an unexpressed story about confidence, finesse, elegance and attention to detail. Let’s face it – the client is more likely to award his or her next big contract to someone who doesn’t slurp over his soup or muddle up her silverware. The good news is, we have kept it simple, practical and useful here – read on and brush up on a handful of table manners that will save the day for you at social events and at client dinners alike.
01. Understanding the Table Setting
If the table set up looks complicated, you are in for a meal with several courses and the host intends to keep things formal – so spruce up. Once you are directed to your seat, place your belongings out of sight and out of other people’s way and calmly observe the setting. There is a plate, napkin, glassware and silverware designated for your seat (meaning you) and you must only use those.
Learn more about place settings at ‘Is THIS My Glass?’
02. Using Silverware Right
Make a quick mental note of the silverware and remember to start from the outermost utensils. In case you opt out of a course of the meal, be mindful of the fact that you would need to avoid using the relevant piece of cutlery. Basically, don’t end up having your mains with a soup spoon after having refused the soup for whatever reason. Go through ‘How to Use Silverware Correctly’ for those much needed reminders.
03. Laying the Napkin with Grace
I have seen people who think they are at a bull fight and those who completely forget about their napkin when at a formal dining table – neither of them needs to be emulated. There is no need to rush into laying your napkin if there is a long conversation before the meal as it could indicate that you are too keen on the food. However, do place it on your lap with the ends outwards well in time. ‘How to Use Your Napkin at a Formal Dinner‘ would provide lots of insights on being confident about handling your napkin.
04. Learning How to Have Soup
Though some people may discourage you from having soup at a formal event for fear of a mess up, with a bit of knowledge and some practice, a soup can be a delicious affair. As a tip, I would say serve only a little more than half a bowl; this makes it easier to handle. For more on how to hold the spoon, how to scoop up and how to finish the bowl of soup read ‘How to Eat Soup Properly‘.
05. Essential Table Manners
Be attentive to know what is going on at the table, remain quiet unless necessary and never speak with food in your mouth. Always pass salt and pepper together, never add salt to the food before tasting it and wipe your fingers if ever they become greasy. If you would like a few tips on using cutlery read ‘Keep Your Elbows Off the Table‘ and if you need to prepare for a meal where you might need to use your fingers, read ‘Eating by Hand‘.
Follow the pointers and you should be ready to ace a dinner of any sort. As we always say, practise regularly – may it be at home, at a family dinner or a semi formal gathering. Making it habitual will only make life easier for you in challenging atmospheres.
Each event is different and what you need to know and practise can be different. For etiquette tips on preparing for a cocktail read ‘Are You Ready for Your Next Cocktail?‘
When in doubt, you can reach out to info@fullofetiquette.com with your etiquette related questions.
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