Young professionals and budding moguls, picture this: You’ve finally landed that dream job or you’re looking to impress at the next big business dinner, but there’s one small problem: your dining skills are about as refined as a gorilla at a salad bar.
Dining out with your work pals isn’t the time to showcase your competitive eating skills. No one wants to see you demolish a plate of ribs like it’s the last meal before the apocalypse.
Rule 1: The Napkin Tango As soon as you sit down, that napkin goes on your lap. It’s not a bib, a hat, or a signal flag for the waiter. It’s there to catch the crumbs that think they can escape. And, if you need to leave the table, leave the napkin on your chair. It’s like saying, “I’ll be back,” without being Arnold Schwarzenegger.
Rule 2: Silverware Shenanigans You see that lineup of forks, knives, and spoons? They’re not there to confuse you; they have a purpose. Start from the outside and work your way in.
Rule 3: The Art of Small Talk You’re there to chew food, but a bit of small talk never hurts. Keep it light, keep it friendly, and for the love of all that’s holy, don’t bring up politics unless you want your dessert to be served with a side of awkward silence.
Rule 4: To Drink or Not to Drink If the boss orders a drink, feel free to indulge in one yourself. But remember, this isn’t a college frat party. Know your limits, or you might end up sharing not just your business ideas but your true feelings about Janet from HR.
Rule 5: The Great Escape When you’re done, signal it by placing your silverware neatly on your plate, not by stacking your dishes like you’re working a shift at the diner (I’ve totally been guilty of this). And please, wait for everyone to finish before you start pushing to leave. It’s a meal, not a race to the door.
Business dining shows that you can handle yourself with grace and respect. Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll not only survive your next business dinner, but you might actually enjoy it. So go out there, eat, drink, and be merry—but, you know, like a grown-up.