Table etiquette is an important part of social and professional life. Knowing how to behave appropriately at dinner or lunch can make all the difference in building strong and lasting relationships. Here are some of the basic rules of table etiquette.
1. Be on time: Punctuality is key when it comes to table etiquette. It is important to arrive on time and wait until all guests are present before you start eating. If you arrive late, wait for the host to tell you where to sit.
2. Placement of cutlery: The placement of cutlery on the table is an important sign of table etiquette. Cutlery should be placed on the right side of the plate with the fork on the left and the knife on the right. Cutlery should be placed in the order in which it is used, from the outside in.
3. Mealtime behaviour: During the meal, it is important to maintain a respectful and cordial attitude. Do not talk with your mouth full and avoid speaking too loudly. Keep your elbows off the table and do not talk with your mouth full.
4. Use of napkins: The napkin should be placed in the lap during the meal and used to wipe the mouth after each mouthful. The napkin should not be used to wipe the face or hands.
5. Behaviour after the meal: After the meal, it is important to wait for the host to indicate that it is okay to get up. Thank the host for the meal and hospitality before leaving.
In summary, table etiquette is an important part of social and professional life. It is important to arrive on time, place cutlery correctly, maintain a respectful demeanour during the meal and use your napkin properly. With these basic rules of table etiquette, you can be sure to succeed in any social or professional situation.