You already know that good manners are important, but you many not want to shell out the cash to learn all the ins and outs of social etiquette. Here are some of the things you will learn in a paid etiquette class-free of charge.
Sit Across From Your Partner
Unless you're celebrating a special occasion, such as an anniversary, birthday, or engagement, it's best to sit across from your boyfriend or girlfriend rather than next to them.
It's much easier to have a conversation facing a person instead of having to constantly turn your head to the side. Plus it does look a bit odd when there's an entire table of open space, yet you're both seated tightly on the same side.
Hold The Stem of a Glass
We all love a good glass of red wine and we want to enjoy the glass as much as possible. If a glass has a stem you hold it there because we never want to heat the liquid in the glass.
All types of wines should be held at the stem. In fact, most drinks, like champagne and martinis should also be held by the stem.
Pass Dishes To The Right
If you're eating a family-style meal that comes with multiple dishes shared at the table, you always pass the dish to the right, or counterclockwise. This is usually very helpful if multiple dishes are being passed at the same time.
Not only will this help you get to eating faster, but if all dishes are going the same direction, the chances of dropping a dish and spilling it's content is a whole lot lesser.
Introduce The Oldest Person First
During formal introductions, it is always best to start with the oldest person, or the highest ranking person first. For instance at a family event, introduce your Grandpa before introducing your little brother and the president of your company before a colleague. It is also acceptable to introduce a woman before a man.
Shake Hands Properly
While you probably know that a firm handshake is very important, knowing how to shake hands properly for the appropriate amount of time is equally as important. You wouldn't want to shake your boss' hand the same way you'd shake your friend's.
When shaking hands, it is two pumps of the hand in business situations and three pumps in social. Shaking hands may seem trivial, but we've all been in a situation where the other person won't let go of your hand.
Use Your Napkin
always put your napkin on your lap. Napkins should be folded in half with the crease facing you. Wipe your mouth by opening the napkin and dabbing your mouth inside the fold so that all stains stay contained to the inside of the napkin.
And after the meal, never ever leave your napkin on the floor or your chair. Instead, place it to the left of the plate.
Comments