Master Formal Dinner Skills: Getting Ready for that Formal Night

Your boss invites you to a formal dinner at his house to finalize the plans for the project that you are handling. Or your client sets up a meeting with you at the fancy restaurant to talk about your business proposal. Working in the corporate world entails constant formal lunches or dinners with big bosses, clients, and co-workers. Handling these kinds of occasions is a vital skill, which we must master.

When going to a work-related lunch or dinner, dress appropriately. Come in business attire. Remember that your professionalism and competence will be judged partly by the way you present yourself. Save the little black dress or flowing silver skirt for your date with your spouse.

Follow the lead of your host. Let him walk to the table first, take the seat, and order. Once you are seated, do not place anything on the table, like your keys, papers, or purse.

When ordering, avoid making long decisions. It is best to choose something safe and familiar. Avoid exotic food or ones which would be messy and difficult to eat. If you have doubts about an item, ask the waiter, rather than ordering it right away and regretting it afterward. Be conscious of the prices of the food and avoid the most expensive items. Follow your host's lead in the number of courses to be ordered, and stick to non-alcoholic drinks.

When eating, make sure you have your napkin out on your lap. Don't worry about the confusing utensils. The general rule is, begin with the outermost utensils, working your way towards those nearest your plate. The ones on top are for dessert. Don't put back on the table used silverware. Leave soup spoon in the soup bowl, while spoons used with cups should be placed on the saucer after use. Unused utensils are left on the table.

If you're unsure whether the food is a finger food or not, opt to use silverware. Bring the food to your mouth, and not your mouth to the food. If you're eating hot soup, let it cool down by itself; don't blow it. If your food needs to be cut, hold the food with fork on your left hand, and cut it with a knife on your right hand. Cut a bite size piece. After slicing, place the knife across the top of your plate (and towards you) and move the fork to your right hand to eat. Break bread or rolls into smaller pieces at a time before eating. Excuse yourself if you have food stuck between your teeth and remove it in private.

After eating, place the utensils parallel to each other across the plate, diagonally, and with handles at the lower-right of your plate. Put your napkin on the table, on your right side just beside the utensils. Don't fold or crumple.

Finally, thank your host for the meal and the lovely evening.