Making Etiquette Easy: Restaurant Goers

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Many of us eat out on a fairly regular basis, if not most nights of the week. With so much frequent dining, it can be easy to forget "what your momma taught ya" when it comes to table manners. Here are a few forget-me-nots (mom will be so proud!):

• Split it upfront: If you want to have separate checks, be sure to request them upfront, before ordering any drinks or food. This will help expedite the checkout process for you and the waiter.
• When you're waiting: It's okay to order beverages before the rest of your party arrives, but not food. When a new mate joins you, be sure to notify the waiter so that they can take their drink order.
• Wait until your ready: If you haven't had a chance to look over the menu or make your final selections, don't let the waiter linger. Let them know you need some more time to decide. The social cue that you are ready to order is leaving your menu closed on the table.
• Choose your course: Remember that not everyone in the group has to order the same number of courses. It's okay to order an appetizer, even if your co-diner doesn't want to order one. However, if you're ordering an appetizer in lieu of a main course, ask that it come out with the other entrees.
• Sharing: If you decide to split a single entree (we do this often due to the large portions being served these days), be sure to bump up the tip. Remember, the waiter would've received a higher tip if you had ordered more than one meal. Also ask that they plate the food on two plates for you before bringing it to the table.
• Think before you order: If you plan on chatting away while eating, you might want to order something that is conversation-friendly. Picking apart crab claws or crawfish might make conversing more awkward... and a little messy.

Making Etiquette Easy, Susan K. Medina

Making Etiquette Easy: Foreign Language in the Office

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Thankfully, we live in a country that is welcoming to many different cultures. In America, we pride ourselves on being the proverbial "melting pot." But the language barriers still remain and with those barriers come a few new social nuances. So just what is the best way to handle an office setting with multi-lingual employees?

• Establish a uniform language in the office. This language should be used in dealing with clients and other employees (unless the bilingual person was specifically brought on to speak their native language).
• Fluent multi-lingual employees should refrain from speaking in their native language (if different from the uniform language) while in the work environment except for professional purposes, i.e. you are on the telephone with someone who does not speak the "uniform" office language.
• Two people should never share a conversation in a foreign language in front of other employees (or anyone for that matter) who do not speak that language. This causes others to be suspicious and uncomfortable that what is being said is specifically not intended for them to hear. Also, you never know who may speak the language fluently and can understand conversations meant to be concealed.
• Be sympathetic if you are on the "outside" of a conversation. If you do find yourself in the middle of a foreign conversation, try to be understanding. There's a good chance they mean no harm and are simply enjoying practicing their native language.