Etiquette dinner aims to help students navigate networking events

Wondering why you have three spoons? Don’t know which water glass is yours? Want to attend a business function without the fear of launching a cherry tomato into the lap of a potential employer?

The annual Career Services Center Etiquette Dinner, set for 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 11, in the Viking Union Multipurpose Room, is an educational, fun and delicious event that aims to sharpen students' networking skills and help give them confidence to shine in social hour and formal dining situations.

Students will learn what to say (and what not to say!) during a business event, how to manage tricky food and beverage challenges in a professional setting, and the answer to that age-old, burning question: "Should I order dessert?"

Attendees also will get to meet and talk with representatives from organizations who love hiring Western students and grads.

The evening begins with hors d'oeuvres and handshakes with students and employers. After open networking time, students and employer table sponsors will be served a gourmet, three-course dinner. During the meal, an experienced business professional will lead an interactive etiquette presentation with tips and advice to help attendees sail through future networking events and professional dining experiences with ease.

Tickets are $15 each and are available at the Career Services Center in Old Main 280.