I spent the month of September traveling around the country talking to students and new hires about the rules for succeeding in today’s work world. It’s a world that has been transformed from the one that existed only 18 months ago, and my listeners know it. A mere two years ago, some of my program participants expressed an attitude akin to, “My employer needs me more than I need him or her.” Today, those entering or about to enter the workforce want to acquire each and every skill that will give them a leg up in the business world.

 

Several of the programs that I facilitated incorporated a sit down meal. These events nearly always result in participants asking questions that had not previously occurred to them. Because some of these questions were repeated at several different events, I thought I would highlight the answers here.

 

Passing foods. Throughout a meal, if you are seated nearest to an item to be passed, you have a responsibility to offer it to others before you partake. So, if a basket of rolls has been positioned in front of you, before you select a roll, offer the basket to the person on either side of you.  

 

Bread and rolls. Your bread and butter plate is located on the upper left side of your place setting. Place any roll you choose on that plate. When you’re ready to eat the roll, break off a portion of the roll that is equivalent to one or two bites. Butter that portion of the roll only. 

 

“I don’t like what has been served.” During the course of a business meal, if you have been served some item that you don’t particularly like, don’t make a big deal out of it. Eat what you can and stay focused on the business discussion.

 

Silverware. Once you have used a piece of silverware, it should not be placed back on the table. So if, for example, you use your teaspoon to stir some sugar into your ice tea, once used, do not place the spoon back onto the table. Either place it upon your plate or, if a coffee cup and saucer are present, place the spoon upon the saucer. Similarly, once you have used your knife to cut salad greens into bite-sized pieces, place the knife on the salad plate or bowl.  

 

Food in teeth. If you notice that the person seated on either side of you has a poppy seed or piece of parsley stuck in his or her teeth, you may feel free to whisper, “I think you may have something in your teeth.” Please speak in a quiet and discreet manner.

 

Handbags, computer bags and portfolios. If you have brought an accessory to the restaurant and do not feel comfortable leaving it with the coat check, store it as close to your feet as possible. Avoid hanging handbags off the back of chairs, where it’s too easy for them to be knocked off.  And avoid placing anything at the side or back of your chair where it may hinder foot traffic.