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Table Manners Could
Make or Break Your Business Deal By Ellen Kaye, a corporate image and presentation coach
based in Scottsdale, Arizona, recently took us on a fine-dining field trip, and
she had a field day with us. Here's what we learned about dining to do the deal: ▪ Select
a restaurant appropriate to conducting business. When
discussing business, you don't want to compete with noise and activities in
the restaurant. To be on the safe side, try to select restaurants where
you've been so you know what to expect. Nothing can kill a deal faster than
the wrong atmosphere. ▪ Select
a restaurant that takes reservations so you don't have to wait. Also
see if you can reserve a table that has privacy so your client can talk
freely without the fear of being overheard. ▪ Control
the seating at your table. You want to place your
guest with his or her back to the crowd so there are fewer distractions. This
is just the opposite of how you would seat a guest in a social setting. ▪ Confer
with the server. It
would be advantageous to let your server know before your guest arrives that
you are having an important business luncheon. You want the server to be
attentive but not intrusive. Let your server know so he or she can check
regularly without disturbing the conversation. Tip your server in advance for
the extra attention. ▪ Take
care when ordering. Of
course, you let your guest order first. If your guest does not order alcohol,
you should refrain as well. Order a meal you can eat with a minimal mess.
▪
Watch your manners. Your
napkin should be placed on your lap when you sit down. When the food comes,
invite your guest to start by saying "bon appetite.'' Wait until your
guest begins to eat before you do. Once you use a utensil, make sure that it
doesn't touch the table. If you need to leave the table, your napkin goes
neatly on your chair until you return. When you're finished, your knife and
fork are either crossed on your plate or placed side by side at an angle,
tines up. This is your server's indication that you're finished with your
meal. ▪ Take
care of the check quickly. Motion
to your server for the check before you plan to leave so you don't have to
wait. As soon as it comes, make sure you place it by you to silently confirm
to both your server and your guest that your guest will not be expected to
pay. You might want to arrange for the check to be paid before the meal. When
you leave, your napkin is placed neatly on the table.
Are you always the person who spills on your
tie? Stains your blouse? Drops your napkin? Is unsure which fork to use? Usually feels uncomfortable ordering food or
wine? Why continue to
embarrass yourself and everyone who dines with you including your clients and
colleagues? Learn to mind your P’s and Q’s and make a great impression. Knowing
what to do and when to do it at any meal will give you confidence and free
you up to focus on your company’s business, instead of wondering what
civilized rules of etiquette you are currently breaking. For lively instruction delightfully
paired with delicious meals, retain renowned expert Career and to provide you
with all the ingredients of a perfect presentation in any eatery. Phone: 480-391-9888 ellen@ellenkaye.com
www.ellenkaye.com _______________________ Books
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