This document provides etiquette guidelines for business meetings and dinners. It discusses proper introductions, appearance, planning, conversation topics, table manners, dinner rules like which glass to use and when to start eating, ordering etiquette, mistakes to avoid, and closing a business dinner properly. The key points are to arrive early, dress professionally, make eye contact, be polite, use proper table manners, follow dining order and rules, tip generously, and thank the host.

1. BusinessEtiquette

2. What is etiquette?“The conduct or procedure required by good breeding or prescribed by authority to be observed in social or official life.” - Merriam Webster Dictionary

3. IntroductionsBe prepared to shake the hand of everyone you meet. Be sure to have a firm grip and give a three-pump handshake.Stand up for an introduction. It is polite to stand while greeting someone.Smile and repeat the name of the person to whom you are being introduced. ( It’s nice to meet you, Bill Smith.)When making introductions, the lower-ranking person is introduced to the higher-ranking one.For example, say the supervisor’s name first to introduce a trainee. ( Mr. Jones, I would like you to meet Bill Smith.)

4. AppearanceShowered, well groomedProfessional business attireUse subtle fragrancesClean- cut, professional styleClean and polished dressed shoesKnow location and type of meeting being held to determine proper dress codeJewelry should be minimalNo tight or revealing clothingLight make – up

5. Plan AheadMake sure you know the directions, plan ahead for delays during rush hourArrive fifteen minuet a head of timeKnow how many people are attending the business meeting and confirm attendanceSpecial needs: allergies, vegetarians, etc.

6. Conversation StartersFocus on your guestMake eye contact while conversingNever interrupt when someone else is talkingAvoid conversations about personal problemsBe friendly, but professional at the same time

7. Place your napkin on your lapDetermine which silverware to use, work from the outside of the place setting inWhen you are finished eating, place your knife and fork together on your plate Use proper postureKeep elbows off the tablePace yourself to finish your meal with everyone elseAvoid using your fingers

8. Table MannersUse proper languageDon’t chew with your mouth open, or with a mouth fullDo not place any unnecessary items on the table (briefcase, cell phone, purses, etc.)Put phone on silentPlace your napkin in your lap after you sit downDon’t apply makeup or brush your Hair at the table

9. Top Three Dinner Etiquette RulesWhich glass?Sitting?Starting to eat?

10. Rule 1- Which Glass?Normally you will have two or more glasses at the table. Your glasses are on the right upper side of your plate. You can have up to four glasses. They are usually arranged in a diagonal or roughly square pattern. The top left glass is for red wine. It will usually have a fairly large bowl. Directly below that you will find the white wine glass, which will be smaller. At the top right, you will find a champagne glass. Your water glass is on the bottom right.

11. Rule 2- SittingYou should not sit in your seat until your host or hostess has done so. If there is no host, then you should wait for the senior or oldest person at the table to sit first before you sit in your seat.

12. Rule 3- Starting to EatThe same can be said for eating as well. You should not pick up your fork and begin eating until the host, hostess, or senior person at the table begins. You must not start eating until everyone has been served even if your food is getting cold. If there are a large number of guests, the host may indicate that you may begin before everyone is served. If this is the case, then you should begin.

13. OrderingKnow the order of your courses (appetizer, soup, salad, entrée, and dessert)Keep meal reasonable if you are not picking up the tabOrder something easy to eat, and avoid foods that could be messy or finger foodsAlcohol may be inappropriate, appropriate or expected, work with your comfort level

14. Mistakes to Avoid Call ahead of time if you will be lateDon’t be cheapDon’t expect other to pay, if you invited themAsk waiter to bring you the check discreetly or before hand

15. Closing of a business dinnerTip generously, 20 -25%Thank the hostShake their handNever be the last one to leave

16. CreditsAstorga, MarthaBuick, CameronKochoo, IsabellaRomero, VictorVankova, VeronikaWeshnuwat, Thana