Eating is one of those things we tend to take for granted.
We speak not so much of the food, though, but the ways in which we conduct ourselves before, during and after eating it. It's interesting to observe our eating habits, especially in professional settings, because often times our habits are anything but professional.
Dinners are a popular way for potential employers to get to know their potential employees, not to mention a free meal at company expense. But aside from the subtle perks, professional dining situations can spell disaster (or unemployment) for less-than-polite candidates.
The more we age, the more we forget the words of our mothers. Phrases such as, "Get your elbows off the table," "Ask to leave the room first," and "Say, 'Please,' and, 'Thank you,'" seem trivial at a young age, but to many professionals, they mean the difference between a kind employee or another bad candidate.
Then again, the same dinner mannerisms are just as important in regular interview situations.
For example, handshakes are often the most tell-tale sign of a person's trust and or gratitude. There's a world of difference between a firm hand and a "wet fish" -- so shake it like you mean it. When you are introduced, be sure to stand up as a sign of respect.
After you shake, you'll probably get to have a seat. When you do, remember you're not in class, and slouching is anything but acceptable.
Once the interview begins, be sure to chose your words wisely. Think through your thoughts because, like it or not, you're being graded on how you respond and what you say. "Valley Girl" stalling phrases similar to "Uh," "Like," "Um," and "You know?" are so totally uncool -- drop them from your vocabulary before the employer drops you from their list of candidates.
Finally, just be polite. Remember that the interviewer owes you nothing, and that you're taking their time, not the other way around. Don't seem fake, though, or else you'll risk losing the character that makes you who you are: someone worthy of being hired.
Etiquette and mannerisms are one of the most vital tools we possess to present ourselves as professionals. Allows us to point out that while all of us possess these tools, not all of use them to our advantage, if at all.
And that can often mean the difference between landing a job, or having another free meal.
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