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The Importance of Dining Etiquette  

Studies done by the Harvard and Stanford Research Center prove that 85% of your job success depends on your people skills, the rest from your technical knowledge.  Thus, the benefit of knowing how to properly conduct yourself in a professional dining situation is immense.  We will cover a few of the most important aspects of dining etiquette to get you off to a great start with employers!

Before You Dine

  • Your napkin should be placed on your lap as soon as you are seated, and should remain on your lap at all times.  If you do have to excuse yourself from the table, place it on your chair until you return.
  • Throughout the meal, follow the lead of your host.  Pick up your menu once they have, and remember to order your meal around the price range their meal was.
  • Small talk is important since this is a place where employers can see how you act and react in a less formal setting.  Being invited to dine with an employer shows that they have serious interest in you, so making a good impression on them might mean landing a job for you!

During Your Meal  

  • All the silverware at your place setting might be intimidating but remember, you work from the outside in, and if all else fails, follow the lead of others at your table.
  • As a rule of thumb, wine can be paired with the food you and other diners will be enjoying.  White with chicken or fish, and red with beef, lamb, or pork.

After Dinner 

  • Once you have finished eating, your silverware goes on your plate with fork tongs down.  This indicates that you are done with your meal and the servers can clear your plate.
  • Some employers might want to have after dinner drinks, just remember to follow their lead and limit yourself to one drink.

    *Remember, the impression you make during a business dinner can be lasting. So make sure to freshen up on your etiquette rules to live by before your big day, relax, and be yourself!


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Alumni and Parent Relations

Phone: (920) 403-3022
Fax: (920) 403-4089
E-mail: alumni@snc.edu


St. Norbert College • 100 Grant Street • De Pere, WI 54115-2099 • 920-337-3181