On Friday February 16 over 60 students joined Crystal Bailey, Director of the Etiquette Institute of Washington, for a three course meal to learn about professional etiquette at the table. Students enjoyed exquisite fare from The Inn at Swarthmore complemented by the impeccable and detailed hospitality of the servers. The tables included white linens, salad and dessert utensils, multiple drinkware, bread plates and gorgeous centerpieces. With so many items in the place setting, Crystal encouraged us to think of the evening as a lab where we could experiment with the rules she was about to teach to us.
Some tips shared include:
- Nonverbal communication through utensil placement: One of the tips we learned was how to place our utensils on the plate to send a signal to the server. In the Continental Style of dining, the fork and knife crossed in the middle of the plate signals that you are not finished with the meal. It is the resting position. When you set both the fork and knife on the right-hand side of the plate you are signaling that you are finished with the meal.
- Ordering menu items with confidence: Crystal also shared tips on how to manage social interactions in a professional meal setting. For example, peruse the menu before arriving and, once at the restaurant, ask your host if they recommend any particular item. You can also ask your host what they are considering ordering.
This interaction will guide you to the price range that is appropriate in that instance – and it provides some small talk before you get to the main conversation. For more great information like this, stop in to Career Services (Parrish 135) and one of the tips sheets from The Etiquette Institute of Washington. Or, join us next year for Dapper Dining!
