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For many families today, there is no regular dining time anymore, so many young people don’t learn what the rules are.  This puts them at a significant disadvantage as they move out into the career world, because a mastery of etiquette is supposed to reveal important parts of one’s character and competence.

There seems no way around it: The highest level of success requires sensitivity to those rules. After all, etiquette is about staying out of trouble, rounding sharp corners and softening blows.

A flash back at some of the worst dining etiquette blunders committed on our dining tables.

– If you are invited to have dinner this Christmas with someone, it is always a good idea to respond, even if an RSVP is not requested. This helps with planning.
– Turn off your cellphone before sitting down. It is rude to talk on your phone or text while in the company of others.
– Wait until the host sits before you do, If not, ask if there are seating preferences
– Keep your elbows off the table. Rest the hand you are not using in your lap.
– Taste your food before you add salt, pepper, or other seasoning. Doing otherwise may be insulting to the host or hostess.
– Don’t cut all your food before you begin eating. Cut one or two bites at a time
– Always pass the dishes in a counter-clockwise flow
– Never reach or shake hands across the table
– Always use serving utensils and not your own to lift food from the serving dish.
– Start with the utensil that is further from your plate and move toward the centre of the plate setting (“outside- in” rule)
– Wait until all the diners have been served before picking up your fork.
– Never talk when you have food in your mouth. That’s just gross. Even if someone asks you a question, wait until you swallow before answering.
– Never blow on your food. If it is hot, wait a few minutes for it to cool off.
– Some foods are meant to be eaten with your fingers. Follow the lead of the host or hostess.
– If you are drinking from a stemmed glass, hold it by the stem.
– Break your bread into bite-sized pieces and butter only one bite at a time.
– Try at least one or two bites of everything on your plate, unless you are allergic to it.
– Compliment the host if you like the food, but don’t voice your opinion if you don’t.
– Use your utensils for eating, not gesturing.
– Eat slowly and pace yourself to finish at the same approximate time as the host.
– Avoid making rude sounds at the table with your mouth, silverware or glassware
– If you spill something at a restaurant, signal one of the servers to help. If you spill something at a private dinner party in someone’s home, pick it up and blot the spill.
– When you finish eating, leave your utensils on your plate or in your bowl.
– Never use a toothpick or dental floss at the table.
– You may reapply your lipstick, but don’t freshen the rest of your makeup or take medication at the table.

Table manners were designed to keep people from scarfing food down like animals, so learn them before you eat with others. Always send the host or hostess a thank you note. It’s a sign of appreciation and courtesy.

Nevertheless, I wish all those who will be dinning this Christmas, a successful dining experience and a merry Christmas.
Cheers!!

Justice Simango is Business Etiquette and Grooming Consultant who writes in his own capacity. He is a member of Toastmasters International. Feedback: [email protected]  Whatsapp: +263 717 566 382