The Art of Etiquette

I never really thought about there being a "proper" or "polite" way to eat. Sure, I've seen people eat differently at fancy restaurants and business dinners, but I never actually knew the rules myself.

Today I was blessed with the opportunity to attend an etiquette dinner hosted by none other than the illustrious Shuford program here at UNC Chapel Hill. One of the many great opportunities this program offers to young entrepreneurs, I could simply go on for hours about how good of a job they do at providing their students with a network and opportunities to learn and grow.?

At this dinner, I learned much more than just where to place my silverware and how to properly eat soup. I knew the basics of dinner etiquette, the best conversation starters to avoid awkward small talk, the do’s and don’ts of table talk, as well as the best ways to stand to assume confidence.?

I didn’t realize how feral I must seem when I eat before learning the proper etiquette. ??

?I must organize my silverware in a very specific manner when both setting the table and signaling to the waiter that I am done. I never knew that it signals I am done with my food if I lay my silverware parallel across my plate, and that it signals that I’m simply taking a break if I place them perpendicular. I learned that the fork always goes on the left, and it is easy to remember because they both have four letters. The knife and spoon are married and always go on the right side. I must hold my drink by the stem, look down while I drink, and never load my mouth with too much food that I can’t speak. (something I often do)

I think that this dinner was such a helpful resource for students, not only for the etiquette that I learned, but some of the soft skills I mentioned earlier. The ability to examine how someone is standing and measure their level of comfortability is a great tool, as well as learning how to stand myself. Learning where to put my hands when in conversation with alumni, professors, or anyone in general has always been a struggle for me. During the dinner, I learned the best place to put my hands is behind my back, at my sides, and my chest. I often fell into the wrong categories and unverbally expressed my nervousness by placing my hands in my pockets.?

As an introvert, learning ways to exude confidence and be more confident in rooms with important people has been so helpful for me. I struggle with talking to new people, introducing myself, and overall being in social settings. That is why I am so very grateful to Shuford for hosting these events for their students. I truly believe this is one of the best programs at our school and I advise anyone to apply for the minor, as it offers so much and prepares you so well for the future!