You are at an interview for a new company. Everything is going well, and the employer invites you out to lunch. Hearing this gesture, you think “I’ve got this in the bag.” You scarf down your meal and indulge in heaps of dessert in celebration of your soon-to-be new job. After exchanging goodbyes, you go home and expect a phone call the next day.But it never comes.  What happened? Two words, Dining. Etiquette.

Many have lost opportunities, due to lack of table manners. You may think table manners only encompass waiting for all dinner parties to arrive before eating, being on time, and keeping your elbows off the table. But, there are more standards of behavior to know. Here are a few of the fundamentals:

• Do not place any bags, cell phones, sunglasses or personal belongings on the table.
• Solids are on your left: forks, butter plate, napkin (which could also be on your plate). Liquids are on your right: glasses, knives, spoons.
• Keep all utensils in the same order; do not rearrange if you are left-handed.
• Do not order the most expensive or complicated dish.
• Avoid finger food and food that is difficult to eat.
• Do not chew with your mouth open
• Do not order alcohol at a business meal.
• Set the utensils on your plate, not the table, when you aren’t using them.
• Wait for everyone to receive their meal before eating and pace yourself, so you finish around the time as everyone else.
• When you have finished eating, place your napkin neatly to the left of your plate, but do not push your plate setting away from you.
• Tip appropriately: 15% for moderate service and 20% for excellent service.
• When in doubt, follow the lead of the host.

These are only basic tips for appropriate dining etiquette. Knowing this information as a college student, will impress employers and give you an edge over other candidates.