In the ever-changing world of business, understanding the unwritten rules of conduct is of paramount importance. Proper attire and dining etiquette are two such facets that often go unnoticed, yet they can significantly influence how others perceive you in a professional setting.
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Business Attire: Dressing for Success
Dressing appropriately for the workplace is more than just a demonstration of your fashion sense. It portrays your understanding of the organizational culture and your respect for it. Whether it’s business professional or business casual, choosing the right attire can make a substantial difference.
Business professional generally leans towards traditional and conservative clothing. A well-fitted suit in safe shades of black, gray, or navy paired with a white or solid-color dress shirt or blouse often does the trick. Accessories should be kept simple and minimalistic.
On the other hand, business casual provides you with a little more flexibility. Slacks or skirts resembling those from a suit, neatly pressed khakis, a sport coat or blazer, or even a cardigan can be suitable choices. The key is to maintain a professional appearance while incorporating a touch of personal style. While personal style is welcomed, it’s essential not to lose sight of maintaining a professional appearance.
However, there are a few universal don’ts to keep in mind. Avoid overly vibrant colors and flashy accessories, as they can detract from your professional image. Ensure that your clothes are always neat and well-ironed. And remember, wearing something comfortable is equally important, as discomfort can distract you and others around you.
Adhering to these guidelines in professional attire not only reflects your personal style but also showcases your commitment to maintaining a professional demeanor.
Professional attire Basics
- Suit — black, gray, or navy are safe bets.
- Contrasting jacket and skirt or pants
- Skirts should fall below the knees when standing and cover thighs when seated.
- Pants may be cuffed or un-cuffed.
- White or solid-color dress shirt or blouse
- Dress shirts typically have pointed rather than button-down collars.
Professional Attire Accessories
- Solid color or subtle pattern tie
- Closed-toe heels or dress shoes.
- Socks worn with dress shoes should be a dark color and crew length.
- Simple accessories/jewelry
- Belt that matches shoes/attire
- Black, brown, or burgundy notebook or portfolio
Business Casual Options
- Slacks or skirts that resemble those from a suit.
- Neatly pressed khakis or corduroys.
- Sport coat or blazer.
- Cotton shirts in solids, prints, or muted plaids.
- Cardigan or v-neck sweater.
- Loafers, oxfords, of low-heeled shoes or boots.
Professional Etiquette
- Common Courtesies -Hold the door open for the person behind you. Put items back where you found them. Return a borrowed item in the same condition. Show appreciation; compliment others. Do what you say you will do. Say “please” and “thank you.” Offer assistance to others. Assume the best unless you have facts to prove otherwise.
- Introductions and Greetings -When you are first introduced, stand up to meet the person if possible. If you are introducing other people, introduce the lower ranked person to the higher ranked person (for example: “Mr./Mrs. Greater Authority, I would like to introduce Mr./Mrs. Lesser Authority to you.”) If you have forgotten someone’s name, politely ask for a reminder.
- Work Hours -Always be punctual. Pay attention to policies related to breaks and absences. If possible, avoid requesting leave during the first few months on the job. Avoid excessive absenteeism.
- Meetings -Arrive several minutes early and ask if you are uncertain about the seating pattern. Turn off your cellphone and give your attention to the speaker. Let the speaker know if you plan to use your phone to search for information during the meeting. Do not interrupt; note what is shared and share your points later. If providing a report, be concise and stay on subject. Unless directed otherwise, do not share information discussed in closed meetings.
- Social and Business Events -Attend when possible. Mingle and meet new people. Maintain a professional image. Give your attention to those present by putting your cellphone away unless you are expecting an urgent message. Never hold a glass and plate in both hands — you need your right hand free to shake hands with others. Do not appear that you came just for the food.
- Conversations -Listen to others attentively and speak when they have finished speaking. Maintain eye contact and keep a polite tone and appropriate volume. Keep your conversations brief and on track. Do not ask personal questions or offer too much personal information. Be sociable, but avoid gossip.
- Public Speaking -Speak in a way that suits the circumstances and the audience and that is authentic to your style. Avoid using offensive language even in casual settings. Be aware of your allotted time and stay on track.
- Phone Communication -Turn off your cellphone or switch to silent mode when you are not on breaks or at lunch. Accept personal calls while on breaks or in urgent situations only. When leaving voice mail messages, speak slowly and clearly. Provide your name and a number at the beginning and end of a lengthy message. Always speak politely.
- Personal Space -Try to stand no closer than an arm’s length away from the person with whom you are speaking. Keep your voice at a level appropriate for your work environment during phone calls and face-to-face conversations. Do not decorate your work space with items that might offend others, especially if it is a shared space.
- Shared Space -Take responsibility for cleaning up after yourself when using counters and appliances shared with others. Avoid strong smells that will travel throughout the office. Wash and return utensils and cups and label items placed in the refrigerator. If using a shared photocopier, make sure the paper tray is full when you leave it.
- Deadlines -Be on time or early on deadlines. Know what and when you need to submit as you begin a project. Be sensitive and flexible regarding others’ schedules when working on team projects.
- Neatness -Management may view neatness as organized and precise. Appear to be neat. Maintain a clutter-free work area especially if you share workspace with a colleague.
Dining Etiquette: Mastering the Art of the Meal
Moving to the dining table, proper etiquette can turn a meal into a deal. Dining etiquette varies significantly across countries, hence understanding the specific customs of your peers can be beneficial.
In the United States, for example, dining etiquette involves a set of practices such as not talking with food in your mouth, keeping elbows off the table, and using the correct utensils for each course. Exploring resources like ‘Etiquette Scholar‘, Dining Etiquette or guides on ‘Dining Etiquette in Other Countries‘ can provide valuable insights.
Navigating the world of business may seem daunting, but mastering the key aspects of professional attire and dining etiquette can provide a solid foundation. Remember, when you dress well and dine well, you’re not just making a statement about your personal style; you’re making a statement about your commitment to professionalism.
Ordering
- Order foods that can be eaten with utensils.
- Avoid foods that are difficult to eat.
- Do not order the most expensive item on the menu. A la carte items are ordered and priced separately.
Serving
- Offer a dish to the person on your left, then serve yourself and pass on to your right. If someone to your left asks you to pass a dish, pass to the left.
- Pass the salt and pepper together and set them on the table rather than handing them directly to the person.
- Servers will typically serve food from the left and clear empty dishes from the right.
- Butter, spreads, or dips should be placed on your plate before spreading or eating.
Table Manners
- If not eating, place your hands in your lap or rest your wrists on the edge of the table. Do not put your elbows on the table.
- Meeting materials should be placed under your chair.
- Do not begin eating until everyone at the table has been served or until the host asks you to begin.
- If you need to signal the server about a problem with your food or utensils, do so discreetly. It is recommended that you refrain from sending back food.
- Do not ask to taste someone else’s food, and do not offer a taste of your food to another.
- Taste your food before seasoning it. Do not assume it needs seasoning before tasting to see.
- Do not talk or laugh with your mouth full.
- Cut one piece of food at a time. Cut only enough food for the next bite.
- Chew with your mouth closed.
- If soup is too hot to eat, do not blow on it; let it cool. Dip the spoon into the soup, moving away from you. Fill it only three-fourths full to avoid spilling. Sip from the edge of the spoon. Do not slurp!
- Try to finish at the same time as your host or the majority of the group at the table.
- Excuse yourself to visit the restroom if you need to blow your nose. If you cough or sneeze, cover your mouth with your napkin.
- Keep your focus on the others at your table even if the restaurant or dining area is noisy and full of distractions.
- Avoid discussing politics, religion, or any other topic that might be perceived as controversial. Safer topics include recent best-selling books, movies, travel, sports, technological advances, and hobbies.
- Do not ask for a to-go box. This may be appropriate if you are with close friends in an informal dining situation.
- Do not answer a call or text at the table. If you absolutely must communicate with another party during the meal, excuse yourself politely and be as brief as possible. Diverting your attention from those at your table is considered unprofessional and rude.