Business People Food Bad Manners Order Move Lunch

Having good "table manners," or the way that one acts when eating, is extremely important at a business lunch. Bad manners can mean losing a job or a client. Here are some "tips" (ideas and suggestions) for things that business people should do - and not do - during a business lunch.

When "ordering" (telling the waiter what you would like to eat or drink), try to order foods that won't be "messy" (dirty) to eat. "Avoid" (don't order) foods with long noodles, or foods that need to be eaten with your hands. If possible, order something similar to what the "host" (the person who invited you to the meal) is ordering. Order alcohol only if the host does.

While you're eating, use the right plates, glasses, and "silverware" (forks, knives, and spoons). Never reach in front of another person. If you can't reach something, say, "Could you please pass the...?"

Remember that if people are "toasting" (touching their wine glasses together to celebrate), toast only with the people who are nearest to you. If people are far away, look at them, raise your glass, and gently "nod" (quickly move your head up and down).

Always bring your fork up to your mouth. Never move your head down to your fork. Eat slowly, taking time to "chew each bite" (put food in your mouth and move your teeth up and down to make the food smaller). Finally, when the meal is finished, don't use a "toothpick" (a small, pointed wooden stick) to "pick your teeth" (try to remove food that is between your teeth). Instead, go to the bathroom where people can't see you picking your teeth.