How To: Table Etiquette

Casual conversation can be difficult for people to grasp. A great cheat code to navigating conversation is: FORD!

F.O.R.D:

F= Family

O= Occupation

R= Recreation

D= Dreams

*These are safe topics that you can bring up in conversation without worrying about whether your comments are appropriate or not. This technique can be great to help move a conversation or show initiative during an interview. ​

​-Always start a meal using utensils placed from the outside in.

-Place your napkin on your lap and leave it on the back of your chair if you need to leave the table during the meal.

-Always pass items from left to right . ​

​Some text here about the topic of discussion.

​Dining Tips:

​-When eating soup, scoop away from yourself and then bring the spoon to you, which prevents the soup from dipping into your shirt.

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-When eating bread it is actually appropriate to rip the bread into small, bite-sized pieces and butter those pieces one-by-one as you eat.

*This allows you to join in conversation easily when approached because there will not be too much food in your mouth, and you will not distract others.

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Dining Tips: ​

Dining Tips:​

​-When the meal has concluded, your folded napkin should be placed to the left of your plate.

-During a meal, cell phones should be silenced and stowed in a pocket and purse. The ringer should be off and the phone should be out of sight-or better yet, left in the car.

​Reminder: Your cell phone should never be your number one priority during this time. It may give the impression that you are uninterested.