The Art of Business Dining
Dine with Decorum
Professional Confidence. Refined Dining Skills. Stronger Business Relationships.
Business dining is more than a meal. It is an opportunity to build professional relationships, strengthen client connections and represent your organization with confidence.
Whether hosting clients, attending a corporate luncheon, entertaining business partners or participating in a formal business dinner, knowing how to navigate the dining experience with ease is an important part of professional presence.
This practical, experiential workshop equips participants with the knowledge and confidence to handle business dining situations with professionalism, consideration and savoir-faire.
Participants begin with an engaging instructional session covering the principles of business dining etiquette, including table settings, cutlery, dining protocols, ordering and professional table manners.
The learning then moves from theory to practice with a three-course luncheon, where participants apply their knowledge in a restaurant setting. Throughout the dining experience, they receive guidance, practical insights and opportunities to ask questions.
The result is greater confidence at the table, allowing professionals to focus on meaningful conversations, building relationships and creating positive business impressions.
“To eat is a necessity, but to eat intelligently is an art” – François de La Rochefoucauld
Key Content
1. Business Dining & Professional Protocol
Understanding the role of business dining in professional relationships, including invitations, RSVPs, hosting, guest responsibilities and dining protocol.
2. The Art of the Table
Developing confidence with place settings, cutlery, glassware, napkins, dining posture, styles of eating and different forms of table service.
3. Wine, Beverages & Dining Protocol
Building confidence with wine and beverage service, stemware, ordering, restaurant protocol and appropriate toasting etiquette.
4. Restaurant & Client Entertainment
Preparing for professional dining occasions, including restaurant selection, hosting clients, ordering with confidence and creating a comfortable dining experience.
5. Professional Conversation at the Table
Balancing conversation and dining while building rapport, navigating appropriate topics and maintaining polished professional conduct.
6. Dining Challenges & Common Conundrums
Handling challenging foods, unfamiliar dining situations, difficult moments at the table and other situations that can affect confidence.
7. Cultural & International Dining Etiquette
Understanding cultural differences, international dining customs and the etiquette considerations that arise when dining across cultures.
8. Business Dining in Practice
Putting dining knowledge into practice through realistic scenarios, guided instruction and practical application.
Additional topics can be incorporated to reflect your organization's requirements and audience.
This workshop is particularly relevant for:
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Corporate Executives and Senior Management
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Client-Facing Professionals
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Banking, Financial Services and Legal Professionals
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Sales, Marketing and Business Development Teams
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Relationship Managers and Client Advisors
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Entrepreneurs and Business Owners
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Emerging Leaders and Young Professionals
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Organizations investing in professional development and executive presence
Workshop Details
Format: Instructor-led learning followed by a practical dining experience
Duration: 3 hours
Date: Arranged to suit your organization
Location: Restaurant or venue of your choice
Investment: Customized according to organizational requirements, group size and selected format.
Elevate the way your people represent your organization.
Contact Etiquette Matters to discuss your objectives, audience and preferred format. We will tailor the experience to align with your organization's professional development priorities.