Business Dining 101

Business Dining 101

Over the course of your internship, your supervisor or manager may invite you to attend business lunches and/or dinners.  Often, coworkers and clients will be present at these events.  Take these invitations as opportunities to network and demonstrate the knowledge you have gained in your new position.  Whether the meal is to take place at a five star restaurant or the diner around the block, keep in mind these tips and tricks to impress the other guests at the event:

1. Appropriate Dress—Unless instructed otherwise, business professional or business casual attire is appropriate for office related luncheons or dinners. Yes, boys, that may mean a suit and tie!  Sometimes, the event is more casual or professional than what you may wear to work.  If you are still unsure of what to wear, check in with your supervisor or another coworker that is attending the lunch or dinner to discuss the appropriate attire.

2. Table Manners—Keep in mind that you are not eating at your kitchen table at home.  Speak softly, sit up straight, and remember to say please and thank you.   When looking at the menu, avoid ordering the most expensive item (unless encouraged to do so by your manager or supervisor.)  While eating, keep a napkin in your lap, and, of course, do not speak while chewing!  Also remember that finishing your meal is not a race.  Pace yourself and enjoy the conversation at the table.  In other words, you probably don’t want to look like this:

3. Ordering Alcoholic Beverages—Personally, I would avoid ordering alcoholic beverages whenever possible.  Although it may seem acceptable if your coworkers or manager have ordered a drink, alcohol clouds your judgment and lowers inhibition.  As an intern, it is unnecessary to drink on office time.  Instead, stick with a water or fountain soda! 

4. Place Setting—While dining at fancy restaurants, place settings can be a little intimidating.  Which fork do I use for the salad?  Why are there so many utensils?  Where does my bread plate go?  Typically, the small appetizer/bread plates belong on your left side, and the drinking glasses on the right.  Forks can be found on the left side of your plate, with knives and spoons on the right.  While you are eating, work your way inward with the utensils.  Therefore, each course will require a different utensil.

5. The Bill—Because you are an intern, the odds that you will be expected to foot the bill are slim.  However, it is smart to keep some cash in your wallet in case the host is short a few bucks, or you happen to be asked to split the cost of the meal.  While this is highly unlikely, it is better to be prepared than unprepared!