Success StoryEtiquette for Professionals



Etiquette for Professionals

Author: Sandra Bastin

Planning Unit: Dietetics and Human Nutrition

Major Program: Nutrition and Food Systems General

Outcome: Initial Outcome

Students preparing for professional jobs or advanced education are usually invited to interviews that include dining out. Being familiar with proper dining etiquette assists in how to present one's self, how to speak intelligently, how to show respect for others, and how we should conduct ourselves in different environments. Thirty-five students about to embark on interviews attended a table etiquette program, which included a meal with other students and professionals. 100% of the students indicated they were nervous when dining out during interviews. By the end of the program 91% of the students indicated that the practice during the program built the confidence they needed to focus on discussing themselves, rather than being overly nervous. Students learned the use of tableware, which plates belonged to whom, how to cut meat, and how to pass the salt and pepper. Students also practiced how to shake hands, dress appropriately, and how to start a conversation. 100% of the students improved their abilities to perform all these tasks at a higher level than when they began the meal. Practicing good manners is the perfect segue in promoting cultural diversity in workplace interviews and building the confidence to perform well while dining out.







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