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9 Etiquette Rules For Networking At Cocktail Or Dinner Parties

by Beverly Aarons 11. January 2010 09:50
  1. There is an unofficial dress code for all cocktail/dinner parties designed for networking—modesty is the best policy.  Dressing in a business style is the safest bet. Women should avoid dresses or skirts that are too short (i.e. mid-thigh), tops that are low-cut and anything that is sheer.  Men should always wear a jacket with a tie.
  2. If name cards are already arranged at the dining table, do not rearrange them so that you can sit next to someone else.  You can always talk to that person before or after dinner.
  3. Avoid overindulging in alcohol. If you tend to become intoxicated easily, it’s best to abstain.
  4. Try not to start a conversation with someone while they have food in their mouth. Wait until they are done chewing before you speak. Likewise, avoid talking with your food in your mouth. If someone asks a question while you’re chewing, politely motion for them to wait a moment.
  5. Do not talk about business at the dinner table.  The networking event is to make the connection and build the relationship before you ask for the job or job lead. You can always follow-up later. 
  6. When asking someone for their contact information, say “how can I get in touch with you” instead of “can I have your business card” because some people may not have business cards at the event.
  7. Have a plan before you arrive by identifying these people you are going to connect with at the event. You may even ask the host (before the event) to seat you next to a specific person. It’s no guarantee that they will do it; but it is worth a try.
  8. No touching up your make-up, hair, or filing your nails at the dinner table.
  9. Displaying good table manners count.  Eat either continental style or American style; don’t mix the two. Check out this video on table manners http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rBAROjhBkPs
 

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