2020 Optimal Living Magazine Christian Women in Business Issue

watching you for cues if they are unsure.
Even more important, should you be
accompanied by someone else from your
firm, this is a great way to showcase your
ability to represent the organization with
class, so be sure to brush up on these
things ahead of time.
3. Take charge. As the host/ess, make your
guest(s) feel comfortable by offering
entree suggestions, appetizers, and
desserts to demonstrate that you truly
enjoy the offerings and that they have
full reign to try whatever they would like.
In other words, if you have to hold your
breath and hope that they opt for a salad
because that’s the only affordable item,
you’ve selected the wrong establishment.
Another way to take charge requires
understanding the libations expectations
of your firm and guiding the meal
accordingly. Although you personally
may not care to partake in spirits (other
than the Holy Ghost), you should always
be prepared to communicate your wishes
without being offensive.
4. Practice the 6 P’s. This means posture,
pitch, pace, protocol, presence, and
panache all count, as it is imperative
that the others at the table know that
they have your undivided attention at
all times. Refrain from checking phone
messages, whispering, slouching, or
looking elsewhere while conversation
takes place. Within this same realm,
never talk with a mouth full of food or
make audible sounds while you eat, as
either faux pas will immediately shift
attention away from what you’re hoping
to accomplish. The best way to avoid
such critical errors is to eat in small bites.
This ensures that you’re ready to chime
in to the conversation as needed, without
awkward pauses due to chewing a mouth
full of food. Slowing down in this manner
will also set the tone for a more leisurely
experience that encourages open and ongoing
dialogue instead of a rush to finish.
5. Partner with your server. One of the
easiest ways to ensure a successful
dining experience is to communicate
the importance of your visit with
management and your server ahead of
time. Throughout the meal, maintain this
partnership with the appropriate utensil,
napkin, and other non-verbal cues to
keep him or her abreast of what should
and should not be happening during each
phase of the meal.
As the host/ess typically covers the check, the
most impressive component is how seamless
you handle this final act. Again, your server
should know ahead of time and be in concert
with the method you choose to take care
of the bill in the most discreet fashion; yet
ensuring dessert and coffee options are
presented before wrapping up. Finally, don’t
forget to show gratitude for all your server
did to create a stellar experience. Be sure
to thank them with 25% to 30% or more, as
building a solid relationship is always a key
component of effortless etiquette. Now take
these tips and go forth and host with grace!
C-A Washington is the President and CEO
of Polished to Perfection, a boutique firm
dedicated to working with organizations and
executives who want to convey excellence
with civility, style, and charm...every time. Her
book titled, The Art of A.R.C., will help you
better understand your personal brand, while
equipping you with the strategies you need to
stand out in today’s economy.
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