Etiquette
Etiquette establishes social parameters that put people at ease.
The key to success is to be observant, think of other people first and follow their lead.
Introductions and General Rules “A first impression last a lifetime”
9 Say your name first and present your hand for shaking (Firm handshakes are crucial)
9 When introducing yourself at a social gathering state how you know the host or hostess
9 Remember Names. Use mental clues to remember a person’s name. It’s OK to ask again – once.
9 Use a person’s formal title until they tell you otherwise (Dr., Mr., Ms., or Mrs.)
9 Keep the greeting simple such as “How do you do?” and “It’s a pleasure to meet you.”
9 Keep conversation light at all times (Avoid controversial subjects and off color jokes)
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If you are incorrectly introduced or mispronounced, gently correct (don’t embarrass them)
9 Regarding Women
o Men should rise when a woman enters the room for the 1st time
o Always open a door to a building, and open a car door for the lady
o Let a woman enter and leave an elevator first
Dining Etiquette Tips “Less is more”
9 Hors D’oeuvres and Appetizers – Buffet style
o Reasonably fill your plate - Don’t fill up – that’s what dinner is for
o Do not snack around the table
o Use forks if available
o Shrimp is eaten by hand when served at an appetizer buffet, eaten with a fork when served at
dinner as shrimp cocktail
o Avoid ordering appetizer a business lunch – but take the lead of the host
9 Sit Down Dinner – When to eat
o At a person’s home - the hostess/host eats first
o At a restaurant -if there are 6 or fewer persons, wait until everyone is served begin eating
o When there are more than 6 persons, you may begin when served
9 Napkins
o Place the napkin in your lap as soon when you sit down
o At a fine restaurant, the waiter will do this for you
o Use the napkin regularly so that your face is kept clean, by patting face (not rubbing it)
9 Utensils
o Forks on the left, knifes on the right
o Work from the outside in p