Could proper business etiquette be the difference between keeping a job and losing it, or could it help you get that much-needed promotion you’ve had your eye on? As per an article published by Jacksonville News, they certainly think business etiquette including dining etiquette makes a huge difference. The 3rd annual business etiquette dinner held recently by Alumni Relations aimed to prove the point that ‘minding your manners’ is important for success. Here’s what a few attendees at the dinner had to say:
Ryan Jefferson, from Pelham, used this dinner as a learning experience.
“I am here tonight to learn about an actual business etiquette dinner and to learn tips that can help me to get a job,” Jefferson said.
Katie Bowman, from Southside, was interested in learning these facts.
“I came to this dinner to learn how to prepare for life after college so I can be ready for the interview process I may have in the future,” Bowman said.
Jeremy Burgess was interested in etiquette in the workplace.
“I want to improve my etiquette,” Burgess said. “It may help me to get a job one day.”
Here are some solid tips about dining etiquette that were shared at the business etiquette event that you can implement at your next power lunch or business meeting:
The planners of the event shared dining etiquette rules, such as enter your chair from the left side and exit on the right side. Do not place keys, cell phone or sunglasses on the table. Wait for all parties to arrive before beginning any part of the meal. When ordering from a menu, don’t order the most expensive meal. It is a good idea to ask the host what he or she recommends. Never butter a whole piece of bread but break off small piece of bread at a time and butter it individually.
Other tips were discussed. Always RSVP to a function. Do not draw unnecessary attention to yourself. When in doubt, follow the lead of the host. At the end of dinner, make sure you thank those around you for a great time. Also, make sure to tip your server. The standard rate for good service is 15 percent. If exceptional service was given then give 20 percent.
Want to learn more about business etiquette? Here are some tips that will give you a professional edge over your competitors and make you stand out from the crowd:
Business etiquette is just as important as dinner etiquette. Make sure that if you get invited to an event, you RSVP or reply to the invitation. Make sure to have a firm handshake but not too firm.
A good introduction will help to establish your professionalism. In your greeting, make sure to use hello since that is more professional then hey or hi. Make sure to introduce others if they are with you. Eye contact is important. Make sure you have eye contact with the person you are talking to 40 to 60 percent of the time. Do everything you can to remember names. Turn off cell phone while at table.
Over the years I’ve come to learn that if you capitalize on small (but important) details that others overlook, you can really get ahead in your career. Business etiquette absolutely DOES matter. It can help you bag that promotion or help you advance further in your career.
If you’re ready to get ahead both personally and professionally get the tools you need to establish proper business etiquette today!
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