How to Eat Difficult Foods at a Business or Social Function

Eating messy food at a mixer

Whether attending a business or social cocktail event, polished social skills are valued. Many of these events include food, some of which are difficult to eat. Here are some guidelines:

Food that Sprays

Fresh cherry tomatoes are delish; however, they can be messy when bitten into. Pricking the skin helps keep the juices from spraying and dripping. If that isn’t possible, only choose tomatoes that can be eaten in one bite.

Foods we Dip

Dip once if the sauce is shared. Place your napkin under your chin to catch drips. Still, it is best not to apply too much sauce.

If plates are available, add a spoonful of sauce onto your plate and dip away.

Shrimp with Tails

Using the same procedure mentioned above, hold the shrimp by the tail to dip into the sauce. Discard the shell onto the plate or into your napkin.

Foods with Pits

If the food is small, pop the entire item into your mouth and artfully discard the pit into your napkin. If larger, eat in several bites and discard pit into the napkin.

Hot Food

Avoid a five-alarm tongue scorcher by holding puff pastry-covered appetizers for a few minutes before biting into them. These can be messy and extremely hot. So, be forewarned if you feel the need to partake.

Foods with a Yuck Factor

We’ve all been there. We take a bite and want to immediately want to spit it out. Please refrain. Step aside or turn away to discretely dispose of the unwanted bite.

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Comments

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Dear Rebecca, I've read your comments regarding office gift -giving online. What guidelines apply when gifts are to a departing supervisor? When the departure also causes the termination of others on the supervisor's team, should they also receive gifts? Thanks, Michael Dear Michael , Good question. It is always optional to give gifts , especially in the workplace. So, there is no firm 'guidelines' about giving to departing supervisors. However, if it’s customary to give gifts to those who depart in your workplace, then everyone who is leaving should receive one. It would be expected. The gifts shouldn't be expensive and could be a farewell lunch or office party with a cake and beverages. Sincerely, Rebecca More by Rebecca How Our Actions Can Affect Our Professional Image How to Eat Difficult Foods at a Business or Social Function Interview: business meals & ...

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