Mind Your Manners

Business Table Manners

People’s behavior around the dining table reveals a lot about their character, which is why a lot of business tycoons and company recruiters tend to use business dining as a means of getting to know the people they’re interested in doing business with.

It’s imperative to be aware of proper business table manners and etiquette so that when you’re having a business dinner with a recruiter or a potential business partner, you’re able to leave a good impression.

In this post, we shed light on the most important business table manners and etiquette so that you can implement them in your upcoming business dinner.

Dress With Purpose

One of the most important aspects you should be mindful of when planning for your upcoming business dinner is your clothing. You have to make sure that you dress appropriately and with purpose.

What should you dress? Well, it all boils down to the context of the whole occasion. To ensure wearing the appropriate attire, you want to identify the host and take clues from them.

For example, if you’re meeting someone that represents a tech startup, you want to dress a bit more casual than you’d dress if you were to meet someone from a financial firm.

We strongly recommend opting for business casual for most of your business dinners, as it’s a perfect visual blend between professional and casual.

Another thing you can do to ensure dressing appropriately for your upcoming business dinner is to look up the place at which you’re having dinner and dress according to the vibe you’re getting from the place. If you’re not quite sure, we recommend overdressing rather than underdressing.

Plan to Arrive on Time

First impressions last forever, and it’s imperative that you leave the impression of someone who knows and respects the value of time; yours as well as other people’s, which is why you need to plan and make all necessary arrangements so that you can arrive on time.

Better yet, try being at the venue a few minutes early, to be safe. If you’re going to be late, make sure you give the host a call and let them know. If the host is one that’s late, don’t call them right away. Give yourself 10-15 minutes before giving them a call to check on them.

Eat a Little Beforehand

Avoid going to business dinners with an empty stomach because you’ll likely pay less attention to what’s being said and more attention to the food. Keep in mind that business dinners aren’t actually about having dinner. It’s simply a way to get to know the people you’re doing business with.

We recommend having a small bite before heading out to your business meeting. It could be a protein bar, some crackers, a fruit, or anything that can keep the hunger at bay without making you full.

It’s All Work-Related

We feel the need to say that business dining isn’t an hour or two with the boys. Think of it as an extension of your workday. Yes, it’s less hectic and more enjoyable, but it’s entirely about work.

We’re saying this to say that you should be at ease when in such meetings, but not too at ease that you ignore the main objective of business dining, which is to do business and to come out of that meeting with a useful venture.

Silence Your Phone

There’s nothing worse than to be making progress with a business partner or recruit when the phone suddenly interrupts your progress with constant ringing. Make sure to silence the phone before entering the venue. Don’t even set it to vibrate, as that can be as disturbing as a ringing cell phone.

Shake Everyone’s Hands

Good eye contact and a firm handshake will help you set an excellent first impression amongst the people you’re meeting with. If it’s your first time meeting those people, you should introduce yourself as you’re shaking their hands.

As you’re introducing yourself to everyone, be sure to remember everyone’s name, especially the host, so that when it’s time to direct your speech towards someone in the meeting, you don’t waste time trying to remember their name, which can be quite awkward.

Don’t Sit Before the Host

It’s highly recommended that you remain standing until the host has taken a seat. If there isn’t a host, then be sure to sit after the seniors have taken a seat out of respect. Please keep in mind, however, that in some countries, the host waits for everyone else to sit down before they take a seat, so figure out which approach works best in your country.

Don’t Order Any Alcohol

When at a business dinner, avoid ordering any alcoholic drink. You can order any non-alcoholic options such as iced tea or club soda with lemon. The latter is a very favorable option because it indicates that you’re okay with having an alcoholic drink in different circumstances.

If you feel like having an alcoholic drink like a beer or a glass of wine, say it and see if the host is willing to participate. If not, then don’t go overboard with the drinking. Limit it to one beer or a single glass of wine. Also, avoid drinking too fast.

Be Mindful of Your Order

When making an order, there are two things you want to avoid. First, avoid ordering the costliest item on the menu. Secondly, avoid ordering food that’s too troublesome to eat. Keep it simple by ordering foods that are easy to eat such as salads, fish, chicken, and so forth. Steer clear of the burgers, lobsters, or any other finger foods.

Further, you want to avoid foods that are dipped in too much sauce as well as foods that easily get stuck in the teeth such as broccoli or spinach

Final Thoughts

There you have it, the most important business table manners to keep in mind while having an important business dinner. The above-mentioned tips will help you set an ideal first impression amongst your business partners and they’ll ensure a pleasant business dining experience.

Our Top-7 List of Online Table Manner Classes

Mind Your Manners

Etiquette is important to learn for everyone, kids and adults alike. It ensures that we act properly in any situation in our lives, and eating food is no exception.

However, you may not have enough time in your day to attend dining etiquette courses. For this reason, we highly suggest that you consider online classes. You can watch them whenever you’re free in the comfort of your home, not to mention that they’re affordable and straight to the point.

Ready to meet some of our favorite courses on the web? Here’s our top-seven list of online table manner classes.

1. Manners @ the Table: A Modern Guide to Dining Etiquette

Hosted on CreativeLife.com, this dining etiquette class quickly had our attention, and it might be exactly what you need.

According to this course’s description, it’ll provide you with the fundamental basics of dining manners in different settings. Whether you’ll be sharing a meal with your clients, co-workers, or even your boss, you can find guidance on how to act based on etiquette rules.

Since these scenarios can be unnerving sometimes, this course will give you a push in the right direction. By learning what to expect and how to respond to various situations, you’ll end up with more confidence.

Several points that this course covers include:

Proper navigation of the menu and the place setting
Holding utensils the right way
The differences between the American and Continental styles
Learning how to eat various courses in the meal such as bread, meat, soup, salads, etc.
Understanding appropriate gestures, eye contact, and good posture
Ending a meal properly

You may want to note that all students that took this class recommend it. Therefore, we can only expect it to be as fun and informative as we’ve hoped!

2. Table Etiquette Online Training

No one can resist a free online training, especially if you’re on a tight budget. These dining etiquette videos at UrbanAreas.net can be a lifesaver.

An etiquette expert, Nancy R. Mitchell, will take you on a much-needed educational trip to enhance your table manner skills. The best thing about these mini-classes is that each video segment is relatively short. So, you may appreciate them if you’re busy.

Just like the previous course, this one covers a variety of topics such as:

Responding to an invitation
Major dos and don’ts at table
Navigating a place setting
Using all utensils properly
American vs. European dining styles and etiquette rules
How to eat various courses
Tips on mastering challenging foods

After watching, you’ll come to realize that grasping proper dining rules couldn’t be more simple.

3. Elizabeth Etiquette Online Table Manner Classes

If you’re a parent and wish to teach your kids table manners, you can register them for Elizabeth Etiquette online classes. A lot of people seem to like these classes, so let’s figure out why.

Using Zoom or Skype, this expert will be able to communicate with your little ones and offer her best pieces of advice. Because these classes are interactive, you can count on them to keep your child connected and focused.

Also, a class usually lasts for only an hour, which should give no room for little kids to get bored.

This course offers guidance on the following topics.

Hand hygiene prior to eating food
How to set up a table
Being polite while seated at a dinner table
The right way to use different sorts of cutlery
Using napkins
Eating etiquette
Manners at the table and communication with other diners

What makes this class even more entertaining to your kid is that it includes roleplay exercises. This way, he or she can gradually shed any remaining shyness and learn how to hold polite conversations.

In addition to that, such classes can be important if you wish to build up your kid’s confidence. They’ll be taught to be respectful to others and use listening and speaking skills to socialize with others.

4. Professional Table Manners Online Program

The Charleston School of Protocol offers you this gem, which you might come to appreciate incredibly. If you’re seeking a course that borders on the professional side, then we’d be glad to introduce this program.

The first thing you’ll probably notice when you visit their page is the price. Compared to our previous recommendations, this course might seem over-the-top. Yet, we’re certain that it’s worth it.

As you can tell from its name, this program focuses on business and professional dinner meals. Since clients and partners depend on these meetings to discuss business offers and deals, your table manners should be immaculate.

You may think that the way that you hold your napkin doesn’t have any impact on the future of your business. Yet, according to this course, your dining mannerisms can highly affect your company ties.

For these reasons plus many more, we think that this course could be beneficial to you as a businessman. The points of discussion that you’ll likely come across if you enroll in these online classes include:

Entering and exiting the table
Place setting and napkin etiquette
Dining dos and don’ts
Dealing with finger bowls

Most importantly, this course will inform on when and how to bring business matters to the table. In the end, you should have a strong grasp on table manners from a professional perspective.

Note that this course is interactive, which makes it far better than watching a couple of videos or reading a book. You’ll be asked questions, come face-to-face with talking text, and take a final test.

In our opinion, this is the ultimate table etiquette course for businessmen!

5. Demystifying Dining Etiquette

Of course, our list wouldn’t be complete without a Udemy.com online course. Quite popular amongst students, Demystifying Dining Etiquette is another course you may want to buy.

The best thing about this online class is that anyone can benefit from watching it. If you’re a business executive, a public figure, or a diplomat, these videos can teach you a lot about handling dinners.

Also, it’s suitable for ladies, gentlemen, teenagers, and kids. Simply, it includes all the guidelines that apply to most dinner settings.

Among other topics, you’ll learn the following points.

Elite dining etiquette
Basic and advanced table manners
Treating invitations
Rules for hosting a dinner
Preparing for both formal and informal dinners
Things to expect when dining with different sorts of people

In addition to learning all these tips, you’ll get full lifetime access to this course. Plus, you’ll be awarded a certificate of completion when you’re done.

Last but not least, the price of this online class should be affordable for the majority of people. That’s another upside you’ll likely come to admire.

6. Coaching Proper Table Manners

Here’s another Udemy course that’s worth mentioning. Coaching Proper Table Manners teaches you the basics of fine dining etiquette without asking you to leave your house.

This online class covers everything related to modern and traditional table etiquette. Laid out in simple language and straightforward ideas, you’ll soon become an expert at dinner table manners.

Also, you’ll learn the proper ways to eat a multitude of common servings. These include meat, soup, salads, fish, and more. Of course, you’ll understand how to use different utensils as well.

Combining a reasonable price, easy tips, and informational content, it may be a good idea to consider buying this online class.

Furthermore, and just like the previous course, you’ll get a certificate of completion once you finish it.

7. UniversalClass Etiquette 101

We were delighted when we learned that this course doesn’t only discuss table manners. The Etiquette 101 online class offers you much more besides teaching you dining basics.

Simply, it introduces all the etiquette rules that everyone in the world should know. However, the makers of this course took huge care into modifying these guidelines to suit our modern lives.

The course is divided into 12 lessons, and each lesson approaches an important aspect of modern etiquette. From dinner manners to workplace rules, to wedding etiquette, these classes cover almost every scenario you might face.

There are more qualities that you’ll likely enjoy when you start this course. These include:

Being self-paced
Printable lessons
22 exams and assignments
You can choose whether or not you’ll receive a certificate
You’ll get 6 months to complete it
Content available 24/7
FullHD video
Android and iOS friendly
Suitable for both Mac and PC
Accredited CEUs

Besides all these great things, we figured you’d appreciate how affordable this course can be. While there are other, more budget-friendly options on this list, we like that this class features more topics.

Wrapping Up

With each passing day, people have come to realize the importance of online content. And online classes can be convenient for so many reasons that you’ll likely relate to at some point.

Thus, if you’re interested in learning etiquette, we hope that our list of online table manner classes includes what you need. So, whether you want these classes for basic knowledge, to educate your kids, or for business purposes, you should find the perfect match.

A Comprehensive Guide: Table Manners with Spoon and Fork

Mind Your Manners

If you’re going to a fancy dinner soon, there are some etiquette rules you’ll want to know. No one wants to embarrass themselves in the middle of eating. We see it happening in movies all the time, and it’s not something to look forward to!

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll show you all table manners with spoon and fork. Let’s start by holding your cutlery while eating.

How to Hold Your Cutlery While Eating

With table manners, the tiniest details matter, even the way you hold your cutlery. Take a look at how you should hold your spoon, fork, and knife while eating.

Spoon

When holding your spoon for eating, you should bend your fingers and keep your thumb upright. Then, rest the spoon on your bent index finger while applying pressure on it using your thumb. That way, it’ll be stuck delicately between your two fingers.

If you’re eating soup, scoop the spoon outwards before sipping it. It’s said that dipping it inwards will cause you to eat too fast, which goes against table etiquette. Additionally, you should sip from the spoon rather than swallowing all its contents at once.

Fork

When it comes to holding a fork, you should hold it in your left hand, between your thumb and the rest of your fingers. Bear in mind that it should be facing your table, not the other way around. Besides, you should keep in mind not to hold it in a stabbing position.

We know some meat is just too tough not to stab, but table manners come first!

Knife

A knife should be held in the right hand. It naturally takes the spoon’s place. You should place it between your thumb and the rest of your fingers, except the forefinger. You should extend it to support the knife from above.

Like the fork, a knife should always face the place, not the sky. And, needless to say, you shouldn’t put it in your mouth.

How to Set Your Spoons and Forks on the Table

If you’re the one hosting the dinner, you should aim at perfection. Perfection comes by the tiniest details, including the setting of your cutlery on your table.

There’s a simple rule that dictates how you should place the spoons, forks, and knife beside the plates. It’s called the outside-in rule, which means the person eating should use the cutlery on the outside first.

Somehow, this makes you responsible for the placement; because it depends on the food’s serving. If you’re serving salad first, the person eating will use the fork first. Therefore, you should place it on the outside.

The spoons and knives go on the right, while the forks should be on the left. They should all be away from the plate by about 1.5 inches.

As for the other items, the water glass goes on the right above the knife. Meanwhile, the bread plate goes to the far left.

How to Eat Using Spoon and Fork

Eating is a pretty basic skill. We all know how to do it, right?

The question is: are we doing it correctly? Probably not. Here, we’ll tell you the right etiquette for eating with spoons and forks.

Spoon

Generally, you should use a spoon only when eating soup. The right way to do it is by keeping the spoon sideways at the bowl’s edge that’s away from you. Then, skim it away from you before scooping the soup.

When it’s time to eat, only sip from the spoon’s side. No matter how tempted you feel, don’t swallow it all at once. On top of that, don’t make any slurping sound.

When eating soup, there’s always some liquid that stays in the bowl, and it’s hard to get using the spoon. Regularly, you can hold the bowl and just pour it down your mouth. However, if you want to follow the correct table manners, you should tip the bowl away from you and scoop using the spoon.

Fork

You’ll likely use the fork when eating rice or any small foods. Although all people just stab at the food, that’s not the right way to do it. You should pick the food up as if you’re scooping it.

We know a fork isn’t the easiest tool to use when eating rice, but that’s the correct way to do it. You can use the help of a knife if you face too much trouble. That’s how the Europeans always do it.

How to Place Your Spoon and Fork on the Plate

The way it is with table manners, every move should be calculated. So, when you want to take a break from eating, you shouldn’t just throw your spoon and fork to the side. There’s a certain way you should put them.

Here are the rules for placing your spoon and fork on the plate during eating.

Pausing

When you take a break during eating, either for taking a sip of water or speaking with someone, you have two options to set your cutlery.

Firstly, you can place your spoon and fork in an inverted V shape, near the plate’s center. That way, their tips should point toward each other. The same goes if you’re using a fork and a knife. This is the continental style.

As for the American style, You can rest your knife or spoon on the plate’s top right. It should be placed diagonally, while your fork should be placed below facing upwards.

End of Course

When you’re finished with the current course, you should place your spoon and fork parallel with each other. They should be in the 4th clock position.

Alternatively, you can place them in a cross shape. The fork should then be facing upward, while the other cutlery should face the left.

Appreciation

If you want to show appreciation to the hosts, you should place your spoon and fork in a parallel position to each other. They should both be placed horizontally facing the right side of the plate.

Dislike

If you want to show that you didn’t like the food, you should place the knife and fork in the same way you would if you’re taking a break. However, you should place the knife’s tip between the fork’s teeth. This position ought to send the message.

Finished

If you don’t want to send any messages with your spoon and fork, you can simply place them in a vertical position in the plate’ center.

When Not to Use Cutlery

Although most foods will need you to use cutlery, there’s one single food that doesn’t.

When eating bread, it’d be awkward trying to cut it using a knife and a fork. The right thing to do then is to use your fingers. This is one of the rare instances where it’s okay to use your fingers to cut something.

If you intend to butter the bread, a butter knife should be provided for that. Then, eat the bread using your fingers.

Tips for Using Your Spoon and Fork

Here are some additional tips for using your spoon and fork while eating.

Use your spoon and fork gently to avoid being noisy.
Don’t use your finger to put food onto the spoon or the fork. Only use the available utensil.
Don’t drop your food from your spoon or fork while eating.
Don’t dip your food into a sauce that’s in communal dishes. Use your spoon to scoop some into your plate.
Don’t use your spoon and fork to gesture when you’re talking with someone.
After you use your utensils, don’t place them on the table. Only put them on the plate.

Other Table Manners You’ll Want to Follow

Table manners don’t end at spoons and forks. There are a couple of other things you’ll want to pay attention to.

Napkin Placing

Once you sit, you should place your napkin on your lap. When you want to get up, you should leave it on the left of your plate. However, bear in mind that you should leave it unfolded. Folded napkins give the impression that they can be reused.

Passing Food

If you want to get something that’s out of reach, avoid stretching across people. It may result in an unpleasant situation. What you should do is ask your neighbor to pass it. Alternatively, you can ask them if they’re going to have it. They should then get the hint.

The latter is the most courteous way to do it.

Chewing

The first rule of chewing is to do it silently. Secondly, you should keep your mouth closed. That’s why it’s advised against talking while eating.

As for the chewing speed, you should match the pace at which everyone is eating. You don’t want to bolt through your food, but you also don’t want to keep chewing for so long.

Final Thoughts

Table manners may seem overwhelming at first. However, they’re pretty easy to follow, as long as you always keep them in your mind.

Just remember to keep subtle and avoid grabbing attention. No one focuses on much when they’re eating anyway!

Table Manners for Ladies

Mind Your Manners

While all sets of manners are important to learn, table manners are among the most necessary ones to know, especially for ladies who like to conduct themselves as elegantly and gracefully as possible.

Table manners come in handy more frequently than any other, after all, we eat multiple times every day with company varying from family and friends to business colleagues and clients.

To help you ease through any dining experience with utmost polish, in this article we’re discussing essential table manners for ladies.

Keep reading to avoid being branded “the sloppy eater” of the group!

If you don’t have time to go through all the tips below, here’s a quick summary:

Unless you’re called out of town because of business or experience a family or personal emergency, attend the dinner if you’ve responded a yes. If such an emergency comes up, let your host know as soon as possible.
Know the context of the event so you can dress accordingly.
Bring your host or hostess a gift.

What’s the Purpose of Table Manners?

It doesn’t matter how old you are, what social status defines you, or how much money you make, table manners exist to serve two main purposes.

First, table manners are there to make you, as well as those around you, comfortable. Raise your hand if you ever had to dine with someone who had filthy hands, chews with their mouth open wide, or coughs all over the food so you get to watch the undigested bits of their food flying around the table.

If you don’t want to be that person and want others to stop acting as such, sticking to proper table manners is the only solution.

The second purpose of practicing table manners is to save ourselves from embarrassing moments. You won’t drink from someone else’s water glass because you know yours is on your right, and you won’t be caught halfway your soap when the host says: “Bon Appetit” because you know you shouldn’t start eating until the host does.

Exhibiting table etiquette allows you to feel confident when you sit down at a table, whether it’s a semi-casual dinner date. A laid back family feast, or a formal dining setting with a six-course menu at a luxurious restaurant.

Even if most of the dinners you attend are informal, such informality means you should focus on how to hold a conversation as you eat, how to address people as they east, what topics are off-limits, and many more aspects. In other words, informality doesn’t mean you should throw table manners out of the window!

Before the Event

Proper table manners for ladies don’t start when you’re actually at the table, but rather from the moment you received an invitation for the event. These include RSVPing, dressing properly, gift-giving, and taking a seat.

R.S.V.P.

RSVP literally translates into “répondez s’il vous plaît”, which is French for please respond.

As such, it’s a crucial part of table etiquette to let your host or hostess know your answer within 24 hours of receiving your invitation, or 72 hours if there’s a valid reason for delaying your response, for example, travel or family emergencies. In any case, a delayed response is always better than no response. Respond with either a yes or a no, but never reply maybe.

If you have any food allergies or restrictions, always mention them in your reply. It’s quite rude to ask for menu changes after the dinner starts.
If you’ve already informed your host that you won’t be able to make it but your plans change, later on, don’t ask the host if the invitation is still open.

Dress Code

If you responded to your host with a yes, then your next task is to figure out what you’re going to wear. To do so, you’ll need some context.

Who has invited you to dine? Where will the event take place? What’s the occasion? The answers to such questions will provide valuable context that’ll give you a good idea of the proper attire.

In the U.S.A, guests are often entertained in the host’s house, while In East Asia (mainly Japan, China, and Taiwan) entertaining guests is done pretty much exclusively at restaurants.

You should also inquire whether or not you get a plus one, don’t just assume your partner is invited unless the invitation states so.

Additionally, Never assume your children are invited. Hire a babysitter if you’re going to be attending the event. You, your host/hostess, and your children will be more comfortable.

While it’s inappropriate to ask who else is invited, there’s a way around it if you were asked to attend via email or through a social platform such as Facebook or Evite. In this case, you can take a look at the guest list to find out.

Knowing who else is going will help you determine if this is a friends’ get together or if it’s a more business-oriented dinner. This way you can decide which wardrobe theme you need to consult.

Doing Gifts

Not only is it a good table etiquette to bring your host or hostess a gift, but it’s also a nice gesture to show kindness. You can buy flowers, wine, a pie, or something more special you know they’ll enjoy.

However, don’t expect that your present will be served or used on the occasion.

Taking a Seat

If you’re the host and you’ve invited a friend to dinner, you’re the host it’s common courtesy to offer them a seat facing the more interesting view rather than taking it yourself.

You can use place cards to tell your guests where they should sit. These cards come in handy at dinners with more than six people invited to help avoid delay and confusion.

For dinners with less than six people attending, there’s no need for place cards. The host will either tell guests where to sit or ask them to take the seat they prefer.

Proper table manners for ladies frown upon guests just sitting down as they please. So, if you can’t find a place card, wait for the host to act.

During the Meal

Once Seated

Place the napkin on your lap right after being seated. The napkin serves to wipe food away from your mouth. Unless you’re directly given a bib to put around the chest, never place the napkin on your chest.

If you need to wipe your mouth, take a section of the napkin and wrap it around your index finger then remove the unwanted bits. Using a small portion of the napkin so you can easily use it again if needed.

Keep your phone off. All dining experiences involving other people are social events with food served, so your focus should always be on the social part.

Turn off your smartphone and avoid using it at all because this will imply you’re more interested in your phone than in the people around you. If you’re expecting an important call, put your phone on silent and excuse yourself to take the call in another room when it comes through.

When to Start

Eating commences when the host or hostess picks up their utensils and gestures for everyone to start. Don’t begin eating on your own unless the host instructs the guests to eat without them.

If your host chooses to say grace, simply accept the gesture as it is. Unless you’re asked to, don’t volunteer to say grace because you are the guest.

If you are a nonbeliever, remain quiet and just go with it. The host has gone through the trouble, expense, and time to prepare food that they want you to share with them. So at the very least, you should respect their table rituals.

While Eating

When it comes to excusing yourself to use the bathroom, try to pick the right time to do so. Granted, if you have to go, you have to go but it’s also a conversation breaker that’s often unpleasant. It can be a good idea to use the bathroom before dinner to avoid such a situation.
The waiter should fill up your glass when he sees it half empty. Avoid raising your glass mid-air to “help” while they’re pouring. Let them know your request and keep your glass at the table.
It’s necessary to thank the waiter only once.
If the dinner is a buffet-style, don’t overload your plate unless you’re going to eat all of the food. Otherwise, you’ll just seem greedy.
Hold your utensils the right way and use them from the outside in.
If you are leaving the table but coming back, set your cutlery in the resting “five o’clock” position and leave your napkin on your seat.
Never talk with food in your mouth, and always chew with your mouth closed. No one wants to see or feel your food bits.
Never smoke at the table. It can ruin a good meal for other guests who are still eating. Smoking also may not be accepted by everyone, especially non-smoker hosts.
Keep your elbows at your sides and off of the table. Good posture is necessary, so try not to slouch or lean back in your chair even if it’s late and you’re exhausted.
Unless your host or hostess specifically tells you it’s okay, don’t order the most expensive items on the menu.
Also, don’t order an alcoholic drink unless your host orders one first. If they do so, it’s acceptable for you to have one as well, but limit yourself to just one drink. If a waiter comes to the table and asks you before the host has ordered, just tell them you’re still deciding.
If you need something from across the table, never reach across the table to grab it. Instead, ask someone to pass it to you.
While eating, be sure to cut food into pieces small enough for you to with your fork in one bite. Do not pick up half of the food on your utensil.
Always try your best to keep up with the pace of other people you’re dining with. You shouldn’t finish your meal long before or after other guests.
If there is a speech going on, don’t talk to the person beside you no matter what.
Keep an eye out for differences in American table manners and continental style.
Always pass salt and pepper together even if the person only asked for pepper.
Don’t add salt and pepper before tasting the food. Without realizing it, you might end up insulting your host who’d cooked the food.
Once picked up, don’t put used cutlery back on the table.

Dinner Conversation

Remember the guest list we talked about earlier? Try to keep it in mind during the week leading up to the dinner. Use it to take note of current events that involve some potential interests of the group so you can bring them up in conversation.

Despite most people saying that anything is fine to talk about these days, certain topics are rather sensitive. You should tread around them carefully, or better yet avoid them completely. Such topics and behaviors include:

Money
Politics
Sex
Religion
Inappropriate jokes about race, gender, or religion
Sinister gossip
Boasting or bragging
Name dropping
Constant talking

After You’re Done

When leaving the table, be sure to push in your chair
When finished, put the napkin gracefully on the table. Don’t place it on top of your plate.
Don’t pick your teeth at the table.
It is best to leave when others do. Don’t linger unnecessarily.
Before leaving the event, always find your host and thank them personally.

Wrap Up

The way we eat gives away a lot about how we conduct ourselves. Such a frequent and public display of etiquette is impossible to hide and it says more in about us in one sitting than what we wear.

For this reason, table manners for ladies are crucial. Proper table manners don’t just present you in a graceful and posh light, but they also give you confidence no matter the type of event.

French Table Manners: Do’s and Don’ts at the French Dinner Table

Mind Your Manners

When my French partner invited me to a dinner party in Marseille, I got cold feet. Not only because it was the first time I was invited into a French home, but also because embarrassing myself is, quite literally, a glass of wine away.

Throughout the week, I worried about what I should wear, how I should talk, and how I should act at the dinner table. My then-partner found it amusing and, dare I say, cute. But there’s nothing ‘cute’ about bad French table manners!

If you’re in the same position, or just want to know more about French table manners, I’m here to help. Today, I’ll list everything you need to know about good French dining etiquette. Let’s get started!

Don’t Have Time? Check Out These Quick Tips

Most French table manners are common sense; you shouldn’t burp, chew, or pick your teeth at the table, for instance. But there are some customs that only a local would know. If you’re in a hurry, here are the most important tips to keep in mind:

Only sit when the host sits down.
Only eat after the host says bon appétit.
Break the baguette with your hands, not with a knife.
Never ask for seconds or pour your own drink.
Keep your hands above the table at all times.
At a restaurant, the host pays the bill unless discussed otherwise.

Before Sitting at the Dinner Table

When greeting strangers, it’s polite to use handshakes rather than faire la bise (air kisses) or hugs. Those are only reserved for close friends, family, and children. By default, it’s best to stick with a handshake until you’re told otherwise.

Here are some other tips to keep in mind before sitting at the dinner table:

On Being Polite

To tack on my previous statement, when you’re speaking to someone you don’t know, it’s best to use titles such as Monsieur and Madame. Furthermore, much of the house is off-limits to guests, so make sure not to wander off from room to another.

Although it’s the opposite in the US, it’s considered rude to leave the dinner table no matter the circumstance, so use the toilet before you arrive.

And, finally, if you’re invited to another room, most probably the dining room for lunch or dinner, allow the senior members and women to enter the room ahead of you.

On Bringing Gifts

Always bring a gift for your host, whether it be flowers, chocolates, or a good bottle of wine. If you’re opting to bring the latter, it’s best to buy a bottle of French wine, as opposed to Italian wine and the like.

At the Dinner Table

Now that you’ve greeted and introduced yourself to the host, it’s time to sit at the dinner table.

Dining with French locals isn’t usually a quick affair. In fact, for them, lunch is described as an important time to socialize and get to know each other better. They believe that “family identity, work teams or friends are built around these moments.”

An online survey found that 43% of French people spend over 45 minutes eating lunch each day. Out of all 14 countries surveyed, this is by far the longest.

As you might expect, it’s polite to comment positively on the smell and look of the food, and even on how pretty the table looks. Doing so will let them know that you appreciate the food they served you.

Here are some other tips to keep in mind at the dinner table:

On Being Polite

Most of the French table manners are common sense. Don’t slurp, burp, or eat with your mouth open, don’t slouch at the dinner table, and don’t touch cheese with your fingers.

Others, however, are considered customary only to the French and most European cultures.

For example, because the seating arrangement is usually predetermined, you’ll need to wait until the host points to your seat. Once you know for certain where you’re going to sit, wait until the host sits down before you do the same.

Ideally, you shouldn’t eat until the host says bon appétit. But feel free to start if the host skips it.

On Drinking Wine

When you’re toasting, always look your toasting partner in the eye. Remember not to cross arms with anyone while clinking your glass.

Delicately wipe your lips before and after each sip of wine, but make sure not to leave any food or lipstick marks on the napkin. Also, no matter what, never pour your own drink.

While Eating

While eating, remember to hold the fork in your left hand, and the knife in your right. If you’re eating salad, don’t cut your lettuce with a knife. Instead, fold it with your knife and fork into little bite-sized bundles.

The baguette is a staple in French cuisine, which is why it comes with its own set of rules. For example, don’t slice the baguette with a knife or fork. Instead, break it with your hands. Once you break your baguette, leave it by the side of your plate, never on the top.

Make sure to eat all of the food on your plate but never ask for seconds — the host will offer seconds if there is any left.

At the Restaurant

If you’re invited to a restaurant, table manners are usually the same except for several additional factors.

On Being Polite

When entering a shop or restaurant, always greet the shopkeeper or wait staff with a bonjour (from morning till until about 6 pm) or bonsoir (after 6 pm).

At the dinner table, don’t snap your fingers when calling a waiter. Even outside France, this is considered extremely rude. If you can’t catch your waiter’s attention, subtly wave them over with a s’il vous plait (excuse me) to get their attention.

When you are ready to order, close your menu and place it down on the table.

On Paying and Tips

Unless discussed otherwise, the person who invited you to the meal will pay.

If you’re the host, you don’t have to tip your server as it’s already calculated in the bill itself. However, if you appreciate their service, it’s polite to round up the bill a little.

Final Thoughts

French table manners may look and sound intimidating, but they’re really not! Once you get the hang of it, you’ll be able to relax and join the conversation without worrying about where to place your utensils.

After dinner, don’t forget to send the host a thank you note or flowers the next day. Alternatively, you can call to say thank you and how much you enjoyed your evening.

List of Table Manners You Should Know About

Mind Your Manners

Whether you’re invited to a fancy dinner and you want to maintain pleasant and sociable habits, establishing table etiquette is critical if you or your family want to be a good dining companion. let’s dive in!

Why You Should Follow Table Manners and Etiquette

Before we head on to the list of manners you should consider while inviting to dinner, you should know why following them is critical.

For instance, table manners like coming to the table with clean hands ensure a more hygienic environment for everyone at the table.

Also, showing up in time and arranging your utensils help in organizing the space on the table properly so that nobody is getting in the way of anyone.

Moreover, the majority of etiquette tips and table manners help everyone on the table avoid customs that might be annoying or unpleasant to others.

List of Simple But Vital Table Manners to Follow

In the following list, we’ll provide you with some essential but easy to follow table manners to ensure a lovely dinner.

To make things easier and more streamlined for you, the list walks you through various table manners arranged in the right order.

Keep in mind that the vast majority of these table manners apply to everyone at the table, whether you’re the host or a guest. Let’s check them out!

1. Showing Up at the Dining Table

Table manners and dining etiquette starts as early as you’re about to approach the dining table for your meal.

The first and simplest table manner to follow is to never be late to the table. Make sure that you organize your time so that you arrive early enough to show at the table. This shows respect to hosts as well as other guests.

You can also bring a nice gift with you as a sign of appreciation for the invitation. Basic hygiene manners are also essential as you approach the table.

This includes having clean hands and face, which reduces the risk of infections for everyone at the table greatly according to tons of studies.

Additionally, remember to arrive in an orderly fashion. Your hair and clothing should be neat and convenient for you and others. While it’s not recommended to apply fragrances heavily, you should still be smelling fresh.

Unless you’re invited to sit anywhere you like, always politely ask the host where you should sit. If you’re the host, you should always make it easier for the guests by politely inviting them to sit in their designated spot.

The first thing you should do as you sit in your chair is removing the napkin from the table and placing it across your lap.

Lastly, it’s a common show of respect to begin eating once the hosts invite you to start eating unless the hosts invite you to eat without them.

2. Sitting Properly at the Table and Getting Ready for Food

Sitting in a good posture is one of the most important table manners while getting ready for eating.

Use a good back posture by sitting up straight on your chair with relaxed shoulders and keeping your feet flat on the floor.

Keep your ankles in front of your knees level and avoid crossing or curling them together or to the back.

Ideally, you should rest your hand across your lap when you’re not using it. It’s also perfectly okay to rest your forearms on the edge of the table.

However, you should always keep your elbows off the table, so you don’t tip the table, especially if the diners are seated at one side only.

Your smartphone should also be off the table and set to silent throughout the meal. The main focus of the dinner should be on the conversation rather than the phone.

If you’re expecting an important call, make sure that you politely excuse yourself off the table and take the call in another room, then return as soon as possible.

3. Choosing Your Portion Size

An important but often overlooked table manner is choosing your food portions properly. Once again, the people and the conversation should be the main focus of the night and not the food.

After all, you’re definitely not the only one at the table. Not only that, but you’re supposed to finish your plate, even if you find the food unpalatable.

It’s one of the most well-established table manners and a sign of compliment to the chef and the hosts.

For all these reasons, taking a small to a moderate portion of food is always a good idea, as it saves you the awkwardness of having to finish a plate that you don’t fancy as much. As you can see, food manners are made to help you through such situations too!

Of course, portions of food also includes your bites. Always make sure that you eat in small bites, because it makes you look more natural, saves you the hassle of heavy (and loud) chewing, and helps you speak easier without annoying other guests.

4. Eating Your Meal Properly

Now that the food is served and you’re eating, you should make sure that you’re eating food the right way.

Always use your utensils properly while eating and avoid eating food with your hand unless it’s a finger food like burgers, french fries, and similar foods.

Eating bread is also heavily overlooked. Ideally, you should first take a slice of butter and transfer it to your butter plate.

After that, you should tear the bread first into small pieces and butter each piece separately and not just butter the entire bread all at once.

The act of transferring butter into your plate isn’t just a dining etiquette but it’s also a sanitary behavior that prevents double-dipping.

This also applies if you’re dining in a country where you don’t butter the bread. Instead, you’ll use the sliced pieces to enjoy the sauces prepared.

Never mention negative remarks about the meal. Besides being unnecessary, it’s also rude to hosts as well as other guests who enjoyed the meal.

With an exception to choking, make sure that you don’t sip a drink until you’re done chewing and swallowing the food.

5. Mind Your Conversations at the Dining Table

Although it depends on the table manner traditions in the country you’re dining in, in most cultures, taking part in dinner conversations is often encouraged.

Taking small bites will benefit you greatly during dining table conversations. Although conversations are the main highlight of the evening, nobody likes to see chewed food in a mouth, which is why you should always chew with our mouth closed.

If someone is expecting you to reply to a statement or question while you’re chewing the food, Simply signal that you’ve heard them by raising a finger and wait until you’ve done chewing and swallowing the food.

Remember to keep the conversation friendly and pleasant, so avoid discussing unappetizing topics that can cause others to lose their appetite.

Avoid interrupting others unless there’s an absolute emergency for it, which is actually a good thing because it gives you time to balance between conversing and eating.

It goes without saying that you should avoid disruptive behaviors at the table, such as burping, picking your teeth, or laughing so loud.

A couple looking at their phone at the table

6. Interacting with Others on the Table

Conversations aren’t the only form of interaction you’ll have to do with other people at the dining table. During dinner, there might be some food passing and condiment exchanging during the meal.

If the food you want to eat isn’t directly in front of you, don’t reach across other people to get it. Instead, you should politely ask them to pass it to you rather than stretching. It goes without saying to use “please” and “thank you” for that.

If you’re asked to pass food to someone else, pass it from the left to the right, this ensures that plates are transferred in an orderly fashion even if there are multiple plates to be passed at once.

If you’re asked to pass salt or pepper, you should always pass both of them together. This will also make it easier for anyone else to find both shakers and eliminates awkward searching over the table.

If you also want the food or condiment passed during the meal, wait until the first person to request is finished then request it being passed to you. Never partake in someone else’s turn even if the food is being passed to you on its way.

7. Finishing the Meal and After the Dinner

After you finish your meal, make sure that you thank the host again for the meal with compliments about what you enjoyed. If you didn’t particularly enjoy the meal, simply say that you loved it.

You should remain seated as long as others are still eating, even if you’re done. If you have to get up, excuse yourself politely from the table.

Lastly, as the host is clearing the table, always make sure that you offer help with the table clearing tasks.

Wrap Up

At first glance, table manners might seem a bit confusing. However, if you look at the full picture, you’ll notice that most table manners are there to ensure that everyone at the dining table enjoys mealtime.

So, by following them, you ensure that you’re paying respect to the host as well as other guests invited over for the meal.