Food Finesse - How do I eat that food?

Food Finesse Since you’ll be eating for the rest of your life, you should be confident while you are eating! Here are a few guidelines for some specific foods: Apples and Pears: In casual situation, eat fruit with your fingers. Bacon: If crisp, it’s a finger food. If limp, use a knife and fork. Baked Potato: With a knife, slit the potato and push the ends toward the center with your fingers. Add butter, sour cream, and whatever else you like. Bananas: At dinner, cut, peel, and eat with fork. On a picnic, peel and eat monkey style. Barbecued Ribs: These are definitely a finger food, but nothing is finger lickin’ good. Bread, Rolls, Muffins, Biscuits: Break off a small piece; butter and eat only this much at a time. Don’t butter or cut the whole roll. Break and butter your bread over your bread plate to keep crumbs where they belong. Butter: Butter is placed on your bread plate, if you have one; if not, put the butter on your dinner plate. Celery, Carrot Sticks, Pickles: Eat with your fingers. Cheese Spread: Spread a little on a cracker; don’t weigh it down. Corn on the Cob: Butter, salt, and eat a few rows at a time. Butter drooling down your chin isn’t a pretty sight, so avoid overdoing it. Crackers: Sure, why not… put them in your soup, a few at a time. Large crackers should be eaten separately. Cupcakes and Brownies: Break and eat with your fingers. Dip: Dip the munchie only once before it enters your mouth. No double dipping! If the dip is on your plate, you may dip and dip and dip. French Fries: These are a finger food. Dip them into the catsup; rather than pouring catsup all over your fries. Use a fork if on main dining plate or if covered in gravy. Fried Chicken: It’s generally a finger food, but follow your host or hostess. Grapes: Cut or break off a bunch, but eat one at a time using your fingers. Gravy or Sauce: Pour it on top of whatever it’s meant for. Don’t have everything on your plate drowning in gravy. Hamburgers and Hot Dogs: Eat with your fingers. Add your toppings, but don’t overdo do it or they will get messy. Jellies (Mint, Apple, Cranberry): Spoon them onto your plate next to the meat. Take a little on your fork and eat it with the meat. Olives: Eat with your fingers. The olive pit is removed from your mouth with cupped fingers. Pizza: Hold a piece in your fingers, curling up the sides to avoid losing the filling. Use a fork if gooey or if it has lots of toppings. Popsicles and Ice Cream Bars: Keep the paper on the bottom until you are finished. Pound Cake: Use your fingers to break and eat. If you add topping, use a fork or spoon. Salad: Use your salad fork if it is a separate course. Use your dinner fork if it is part of your entrée. You may cut large pieces of lettuce with a knife (leave your knife on your salad plate) Shrimp Cocktail: Dip the shrimp into the cocktail sauce, using your seafood fork or use your fingers if the tail is on. (An entrée of Fried or broiled shrimp with the tail on or off should be eaten with a fork) Soup: Tilt the spoon away from you. When you get to the bottom, you may also tilt the bowl away from you. If your soup is too hot, be patient it will cool. Just make sure you don’t blow on it. If the soup is served in a cup with handles, pick it up and drink from it. Never ever slurp. Spaghetti: With your dinner fork, wind a few strands at a time by putting the tines down on the plate and bring it to your mouth (or use a pasta spoon to hold the pasta to the fork). Do not cut. Sticky Cake: Use a fork. Strawberries: Large strawberries may be eaten whole. Grasp the stem and take a couple of bites. Leave the stem on your plate. Sushi: May be eaten with your fingers, but mastering chopsticks will make you look like a pro. Tacos: Hold the taco in your fingers and eat from one side only. Watermelon Slice: A large slice should be cut to bite size with your knife and fork. Use cupped fingers to remove the seeds and leave them on your plate. And, how is food served? Food is served from the left and removal from the right. Note: People seated together always introduce themselves to each other as a sign of courtesy and respect, even when they expect to conduct separate conversations. Bon appétit!

The Dining Do's

Like it or not – “Table Manners” are the single most important benchmark when referring to "Good Manners." We are offering some "Table Do's" today to help you feel confident at your next business or social dining event. We also added a picture of a full table setting for your review. Dining Do’s • Sit up straight, but not stuffy. Your forearm may rest on the table if there is room and your elbows may also rest there in between courses. • Put your napkin on your lap. Use it. Place it on the table, not the chair, if you have to get up during a meal and when you are finished. • Wait for your host or hostess to begin eating or give a signal to begin. • Serve food from the left and remove from the right. Drinks are served and removed from the right. • Bring the food to your mouth, not your mouth down to the food. • Pass both the salt and pepper (one in each hand) even when someone asks for just one. • Break your bread, one piece at a time, butter and eat. • Place a soup spoon, teaspoon or iced tea spoon on the saucer under it. Nix the noise while stirring. • Pick up a dropped utensil at someone’s home (surely the hostess will notice and get you a clean one). Leave it on the floor at a restaurant and ask for another. • Remove a seed, an olive pit, a bone or a piece of gristle from your mouth with your cupped fingers. Hide it under something on your plate, not on the table or in your napkin. • Wipe your nose at the table, with a handkerchief or Kleenex if necessary, but never on your napkin. If you have to blow, excuse yourself and go to the restroom. • Eat finger foods with your fingers, but then use your napkin because nothing is “finger lickin’ good”. • Tilt the soup spoon away from you, like a ship going out to sea, and then bring it up to your mouth. • Eat what you can but don’t make an issue of what you “don’t like” or “can’t eat”; say only “No, thank you” when declining food. Please note these comments are for U.S. dining etiquette. Each culture has different ways of showing "good table manners." If you are heading to another country reach out and ask us. We will help you find out how to fit into any new cultural setting.

Perfect Party Punch

Here are a few tips to make the perfect party punch for your next summer soirée. 

1) Stick to the old punch formula - "one of sour, two of sweet, three of strong, four of weak."

2) Make the perfect garnish for your punch by freezing fruits or cucumbers or herbs into ice blocks. Immediately raises your punch game. I like to check out my local farmers market for good ideas. The farmers know their foods and how to pair them. For example check out your local Edible magazine for some good locations near you. @ediblehouston is my choice. 

3) White spirits like gin or vodka work best in summer punches as they are not overpowering. One of my new favorite punch additions is the Deep Eddy flavored vodkas like grapefruit or lemon for refreshing summer punches. 

4) Use quality ingredients. Just because it's going in a punch is no reason to skimp on quality. Guests will know the difference. 

5) Let your punch shine by using glass or crystal bowls for colorful punches or copper bowls for less colorful punches. 

How to be a great potluck party guest

What do you make? How much do you bring? Potlucks sometimes leave more questions than answers for guests. Here are some quick tips:

1) Think before saying "yes" - if you sign up for the appetizer will you be able to commit to being right on time to the party? If not, sign up for dessert. If you are not a good cook or don't enjoy cooking, don't sign up for main dish.  Instead, offer to do something easy for you like making a fruit tray or cheese/charcuterie plate. 

2) Be considerate of limited oven/stove time - try to pick a dish that can easily be served when you arrive. If you cannot keep something warm during travel time, let you hosts know so they can save you some precious stove or oven time. 

3) Bring something that can easily be served on a plate - as opposed to making host add spoons and bowls to the tableware (and cleaning duty). 

4) Arrive on time to potlucks (or see point 1 above and notify your host). Your dish may slow the whole party to a crawl and stress out your hosts that a big part of the meal is not accounted for. 

Now go enjoy that party!

Be the perfect party guest - RSVP

1) RSVP ASAP - at the longest within a day or two. 2) The maybe? That is a tougher option. If you are just weighing your options, just say no. It's not ok to not respond. If it's an evite, a host can see that you viewed it so they may think you are ignoring them. If your plans change or you can come, give a week's notice. A host will usually be happy to have you back. 3) If you don't want to go, don't make up an excuse. Just say that you cannot attend. 4) RSVP for whom? You want to bring your spouse or kids? Do not assume that any of them are invited. Don't ask can we bring the kids when the invite is clear - e.g. "couples party" does not mean bring the toddler. If you must ask, leave it open ended like "I am excited about the party. Shall I tell the hubby?" That gives the host an easier way to answer. 5) You can only make an appearance? If you can only make an appearance and it is a sit down dinner, let your host know. If its unstructured and you can stay there for 30 minutes that is fine enough to come in, greet the host, and have a drink. 6) Your yes changes to a no - as soon as you know you cannot attend, let your host know. Don't be a no show. It's rude to your host. You don't have to share all the details but let them know you will miss being there.

The Perfect Party - Wrapping It Up Politely

How do you politely let guests know that the evening should come to a close? 1) Set a time on the invitation. This sets expectations at the outset of the party (e.g. Party from 6-9 pm) 2) Give a toast at the end of the party that thanks guests for coming and mention you cannot wait to do it again. This is a nice way to give everyone a not so subtle hint it is time to go home. 3) A more subtle approach may be if you start cleaning up. Guests usually pitch in or leave.

The Perfect Party - Conversation Free Flow

If your guests don't know each other one way to open up avenues for conversation is an interactive event like a wine/cheese tasting, or make your own pizza party where everyone is interacting in the kitchen. These kind of interactive events help loosen up the group and get everyone sharing. If you are up for games, card games or interactive games are also a great way to get the whole group involved. As the host you should be the facilitator - greet every single guest and give them an idea of who they may be interested in talking to because they may have something in common like they are both runners, or their kids are in the same school etc.

The Perfect Party - How To Get People To Mix and Mingle

Here are a few thoughts on how to get a perfect mix at your party: 1) Seat elderly guests in the center of things so they are no isolated on the edges. Plus their stories are always the best. 2) Shy guests? Give them a job like helping pass appetizers around. It helps them mix and gives them a reason to go around to each person without feeling awkward. 3)Name cards are a good way to mix up a table so everyone gets to know each other. Dessert is also an option to move a few guests around for the second part of the meal. 4) Kids can get in on the party too. They can be great helpers to take overcoats/purses and store those and help pass out drinks or refreshments.

Network like a pro - reading body language

Reading a room is a skill that is learned. Here is a guide for nonverbal cues that will help at your next networking event. 1) Is the person facing outward/open to the action and smiling? That is a person who is giving an invitation to talk. Go network! 2) Is there a bored looking group, talking sporadically, looking at phone a lot? If you can liven up the party with them, you will be a hero. If you are not up for that, this group will be hard to break into. 3) Big smile, aggressive hand shaker, business cards at the ready? He's selling something...run. Those folks rarely want to help others - they are there to collect cards. 4) Solo person but with a smile? Offer conversation. Those situations often offer the most bang for the buck as everyone is grateful to find a group at a party. The note to self is which one of these groups do you fall into at a party? You may be ruining your chances of great networking opportunities if you use the wrong non-verbal cues.

Smooth Operator Part 2

Can't seem to start conversations at a party? Try these tips! 1) Plan your opening line - silence is sometimes golden but not always at a party. Have a line like "how do you know the host?" to help you break the ice. Other great openers are things that are localized like talk of sports teams, the weather, etc. Try things like "how about those Astros last night? Did you see that game?" Practice makes perfect so start talking to people you meet in grocery stores or uber drivers. It will help next time you are in a networking situation and need to break the ice. 2) Be comfortable with silence. This is an art. Some times people talk just to not hear silence. Pausing before speaking lets you listen then respond. This type of behavior will actually make people want to talk to you because you make them feel important by listening attentively to what they have to say

Smooth Operator Part 1

Ever been in an awkward conversation and looking for a way to get out? Or you are just uncomfortable with small talk with strangers? We can help you with a few tips/tricks 1) "Boy do I need a refill!" is a tried and true way to break away - but they could follow so be ready. 2) Saying you have to make a phone call is a better way to excuse yourself and avoid any followers. 3) Change the subject - if the path of the conversation is one you are unfamiliar with or just think is inappropriate you can help steer the conversations with probing question. People always like to talk about themselves and can be a quick way to turn a conversation around or get it going. Think of questions like Where were born and raised? Where did you go to school? What company do you work for? Those kinds of questions inevitably will help you find some common ground with folks and keep the conversation flowing.

Master of the Coffee Interview - Part 5

Rule #5 - Preparation for the person on the other side of the Starbucks Table - If you are the busy professional with little time for small talk and have people frequently ask you for coffee interviews, you can probably use a few tips too. Even if you enjoy helping others, these sessions can sometimes feel burdensome or fruitless. Increase their chances for success by being selective and asking for a little advance work. Before committing to coffee, look for a commonality (friend, alma mater, etc)and consider whether or not you have meaningful insights to offer, then pass the ball back with the question of how the asker thinks you can specifically help them. Also ask them to specify the topics they want to explore. Also be prepared for the meeting, request a resume of the asker and ask them to specify their goals. You can often weed through the small talk questions and get right to the heart of the matter with a little preparation. Additionally, you don't always have to do these in person. Often a 15 minute phone call or skype session may be a way to save on your time but still give the asker the information requested. Further, you could designate one day a month for coffee meetings - first Wednesday of each month from 9 am to 11 am and when that slot is full you pass future requests to the next month.

Master of the Coffee Interview - Part 4

Rule 4 - Listen more than you talk. In advance, research your coffee-mate and his or her company. Don't ask anything you can discover online with some research. Remember you are there to glean wisdom, not sell yourself. Pay attention and relax. You should not be nervous; this is infomation gathering and creating a new relationship.

Master of The Coffee Interview - Part 3

Rule 3 - Make it easy for the other person to say yes! - Suggest a location near his or her office and indicate that you will take limited time. Spend no more than 30 minutes if you can. Time is valuable. Present a few specific dates and times for the meeting to give the askee lots of options and not make them be the planner of the time slot.

Master of the Coffee Interview - Part 2

Rules for handling information one-on-one coffee interviews considerately and efficiently! Rule #2 - Mind Your Manners - Just because it's coffee does not mean it's casual. Don't arrive like you just came from the gym. The less well the person knows you, the more professional you should dress. Order something simple so you can focus on the conversation - coffee with cream. No half caf, chocolate-caramel, two splenda, no whip, soy latte. Let the other party who has agreed to sit down with you order whatever they like! Attempt to pay for both drinks, even though the more senior person will often pick up the tab. Send a handwritten thank you right away. Email is nice, but handwritten is even better.

Master of the Coffee Interview - Part 1

Rules for handling informational one-on-one coffee interviews considerately, efficiently, and with panache! Rule 1 - Be specific. When you email someone for a coffee let them know exactly how they can help you. Don't mass email your address book. That is like sending spam mail coupons and hoping someone uses them. Ask them for example to objectively review your resume or information about changing departments in your industry. You may also want to hear about someone' career path or their particular company. Don't ever, ever ask for a job, even though you may be looking for one. Coffee meetings are for sharing information and establishing a connection.

Polite Gestures That Never Fail to Impress

1) We often get a "What?" or "Huh?" When you say "pardon me" or "excuse me" it seems kinder and less terse. 2) Bringing food to someone experiencing a stressful situation. You may not be able to solve their problems but you can show you care. 3) Wipe down counters in public restroom. You know how they are always wet so use your hand towel to do a quick sweep of the sinks before you leave. It shows the next person you care. 4) Help others place luggage in overhead bin or remove it after a flight. You cannot get any more helpful. 5) Say thank you for your service to every veteran you meet. They are the reason we get to talk about manners in our free society.

Finishing School Short Course - Correspondence

This month we will give quick tips for a polished and professional image in any social or business situation. You don't need finishing school to learn these things - just a few reminders will get you far. Correspondence 1) Email Response - Try to respond within 24 hours. 2) Expressing Gratitude - When you receive a gift or a favor, send a handwrtten thank you note. It only needs to be a few sentences. Completely a a loss, use small stationery and write one sentence - I really appreciate.... Incude a warm greeting and a sign off. Mail the note as soon as you can (2 weeks at latest). 3) Business Thank You - After a job interview, send an immediate email of thanks and mention a note is in the mail. The note is more tactile, visual and emotional so it is worth the time. HR groups may interpret this as a demonstration of strong interpersonal skills. Also send a handwritten note if someone gives you a letter of recommendation. 4) Email Greetings and Sign Offs - I think it is important to have you name and phone and email on any email signature throughout the correspondence. I know it makes some email chains seem longer but it allows people to quickly find your phone number if they want to call you on the matter. Having to look you up is an inconvenience for them. Pay attention to signature boxes - it lets people know how you would like to be called, whether by full name or nickname. 5) Reply All - Click when the group needs addressing, but otherwise spare everyone else on the list. 6) Bcc on Emails - Use bcc only to maintain the privacy of addreses in group email,not as a sneaky one way mirror to conversation. If you want someone else to see what you wrote then forward it to them after it is sent.

Finishing School Short Course - Networking

This month we are doing a quick overview on a variety of topics to help you get through any social situation. Networking 1) Mingling - getting it right is hard to do if you don't have practice. To join a new conversation at an event, catch someone's eye, smile and enter the clique on a break. If you see someone who wants to participate in your group, pull her in when there's a lull. 2) Switching Groups - Instaed of saying "Excuse me I have to go to the bathroom", try "It's been so nice talking with you, please excuse me." There is nothing wrong about going to a new group at a party, it's why you are there - to socialize! 3) Connecting People - Introduce the parties andexplain what they have in common. Then say, I am going to leave you two to discuss. I will follow up with you both later."

Finishing School Short Course - Table Manners

This month we will give quick tips for a polished and professional image in any social or business situation. You don't need finishing school to learn these things - just a few reminders will get you far. Table Manners 1) Elbow placement - Elbows on table are ok if not eating. But don't use your elbow as a fulcrum for bringing food to your mouth. Wrists on the table are always ok. 2) Using the right fork for each course - Work from the outside in - salad to dessert fork. 3) Using the right bread plate - Reminder "BMW". Bread plate is on your left, Meal plate is in the middle, Water glass is on the right. 4) Digging In - Wait until everyone is served or the host gives the green light before you dig in. If its a large buffet style serving, you can eat when you get your food. If it is a preset event, wait until the hosts gives the cue. 5) Passing Food - First time around the tabel pass the food counterclockwise so the right hand is free for serving. Always pass both salt and pepper together even if asked for only one. 6) Reaching - If you can get the item near without a full arm extension, do it. Otherwise ask to have it passed. 7) Leaving the table - ask to excuse yourself (sans details - like I need to go to the bathroom - no one needs to know that). Leave your napkin to the left of your plate, not on your seat.