Students experience etiquette rules

How do you imagine your first ‘big’ job interview? Well of course we all imagine ourselves being professional, witty, and likeable…all the things you need to impress your ‘future’ boss. We all wish it was that easy; however, this is not the case.
So, let’s start over…you wake up the morning of your interview to an e-mail that states the location of the interview has been changed. You are now meeting at a five-star restaurant in the city.
After the interview is over, you realize that you had no idea what you were getting yourself into. There were too many forks and spoons on the table which totally threw you off, about four glasses, three plates and some other stuff you did not recognize. Don’t let this be you.
Fortunately, Career Services and Sodexo Food Service have been hosting an Etiquette Dinner now for over ten years, which is there to teach you all the things you normally wouldn’t learn while in college. Things like which fork is used for salad or dessert.
“I think it will be a great experience…learning how to properly use the utensils and dinnerware, so that in the future I will be prepared” first-year Keyla Sosa said.
The Etiquette Dinner covers more than just table manners; General Manager of Sodexo Ken Allen tells students that “knowing whether or not to pay, what to wear and how to be prepared and on time” are all essential skills students should obtain.
Director of Career Services, Carol Lytle agrees, stating that “etiquette is about presenting yourself with the kind of polish that shows you can be taken seriously. Etiquette is also about being comfortable around people (and making them comfortable around you.)”
This is an event that everyone can learn something from, plus, they serve you a free four-course meal. Can you really pass that up?
For those of you who not able to attend the Etiquette Dinner this year, don’t stress it too much—because there is always next time!  But until then, there a few helpful tips that you’ll need.
First, always arrive on time. Not too early, and definitely not late. First impressions are important.
If you are confused on whether or not it is proper table manners to take a sip of your drink while you are still chewing, the polite way is to wait until you have finished chewing and have swallowed your food before taking a sip of your beverage.
Also, at the end of a formal dinner, don’t just place your utensils anywhere. Place the knife and fork parallel to one another across the plate with the knife’s blade facing towards the plate. This let’s the server know that you are done with your food, without looking too messy.
In addition, when buttering bread or rolls, break the bread apart with your fingers and only butter one to two pieces at a time. When done, pass the basket to the right.
In situations when meeting with business partners or an employer your table manners and business etiquette can affect your future.
Make sure to be professional at all times; even when your employer is not watching. Bring business cards and possibly a resume depending on the occassion, but always wait to talk about business ventures until after dinner.  
Keep in mind that Sodexo and Career Services also hosts the Art of Reception and Cooking 101, which is another great way to expand your knowledge about what it means to be professional and fun at the same time.
And if you remember these tips,  you will always be prepared for a formal dinner, and ready to impress.