You are here: Home - Variety - Program exhibits formal dining rules

Program exhibits formal dining rules

Knowing which fork to begin dinner with not only is proper etiquette but also could potentially impress an employer.

Jointly sponsored by the Center for Leadership and Service and the Career Center, the program “Business Dining and Etiquette” will provide students with a formal dining experience.

“Formal dining can be an important part of the interview process,” said Scott Williams, executive director of the Career Center.

Although business has become increasingly relaxed, proper etiquette is important in making a good first impression.

“Events such as these are particularly important because every interview off-site generally includes a luncheon, dinner or type of reception,” Williams said.

The first part in the workshop is a stand-up reception where students will have a chance to mingle with fellow participants.

After the reception, the formal dinner will begin with an instructional etiquette component in which students will be paired with an employer.

Being paired with employers allows the students to learn about potential fields of interest, in addition to networking, Williams said.

While the primary focus is etiquette, the workshop will discuss topics that are beneficial for interviews and job settings such as proper business attire and introducing other people in the correct manner.

“In forming new relationships and attempting to obtain a future job, etiquette and appearance is just as important as the skills you can offer a company,” said Derrick Causey, a senior from Baxley.

To help students in perfecting their professional look, a $300 gift certificate for a suit from Talbots will be raffled at the event.

At the conclusion of dinner, there will be a dessert reception that will give students the opportunity to speak with other prospective employers.

The etiquette event is part of a series in preparation for the annual Career Fair, to take place Wednesday at the Classic Center.

All week the career center has been holding critique sessions from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. to assist students with polishing their resumes before presenting them to employers.

“It is always important to attend the precursor events before going to the career fair. With employers, it is important to put your best foot forward,” said Erica Kittrell, a senior from St. Mary’s.

More than 200 employers will be present at Wednesday’s annual career fair, including corporations and non-profit organizations as well as some locally owned businesses.