Hixson Blog #8 - 

     Tonight we had the etiquette dinner at the Memorial Union. It was, in my opinion, one of the best Hixson events we've had to date. We started off with a brief mix and mingle before being seated. I never really heard the ladies name (Artie???), but she had so many tips and suggestions. I was surprised something as seemingly insignificant as a dinner interview could be towards displaying to prospective employers attributes about myself. I've had a few formal dinners in my life, but never anything amounting to this level. 

    We learned about silverware placement, situational faux pas, mild mannerisms, and about presenting a strong and confident appearance to a host/employer. I've always been taught no alcohol at any work-related or formal event. I never knew how to set my silverware and where to begin. Can you believe it's most appropriate to chew at least 9 times on every single bite? Grab with the right hand and pass with the left - make sure to pass left to right though. Don't rip off the tops of any sugar packet or creamer, set your coffee cup in a specific place if you want coffee. Don't have your desert fork in the correct position? Well, then no desert for you. 

     There were so many things tonight which have been greatly beneficial to me. Some people feel a dinner interview is a time to relax and feel more confident. While the confidence part remains, your level of concentration and etiquette should be as much as you can give if you find yourself in this situation. I know now that before I go on any dinner interview with a potential boss I will review some of the things I learned tonight.