Hello Reader,
​
I want to share something I learned about recently. A Chief Digital Officer at a global consulting firm recently interviewed a technically brilliant senior consultant over dinner. Despite her impressive qualifications and his urgent need to fill the job, he rejected her afterward. The reason was never shared with her - HR simply stated she wasn't a 'cultural fit.'

The real reason? Throughout dinner, she placed her phone up on the table, constantly checked notifications, interrupted the server, talked while chewing, and gestured with her fork in hand. The executive could only imagine how she might embarrass the firm with their conservative clients.

And the unfortunate part of the story? She never knew her dining etiquette cost her the job. How could she? It's an uncomfortable conversation for anyone to have, especially with someone they hardly know.

Stories like this inspired me to address this critical career blind spot. On May 22, I'll be doing a webinar at Sheridan College's Life After Graduation Conference. More details are below.
​
​When considering the most valuable topic for both alumni and graduating students stepping into their careers, this recent incident immediately came to mind - highlighting a critical professional skill often overlooked in career development. I'm excited to announce that this webinar is now open to all of you, not just Sheridan alumni!

The Missing Piece in Professional Development

As you may know, I ran the Next Gen Dinner Series for 11 years - a mentorship program connecting ambitious graduates with hiring managers over dinner. My friend and colleague Leslie Ehm (corporate trainer and author) and I trained these emerging professionals on confidence, preparedness, and personal branding.
​
But we never addressed dining etiquette. Looking back, this was a missed opportunity.

After hosting countless dinners with everyone from recent graduates to C-Suite executives, I've observed a consistent pattern: regardless of career level, proper dining skills are increasingly rare...and increasingly valuable in professional settings.

The Disappearing Dining Table

Throughout history, the dining table has been more than just a place to eat - it was the heart of family connection and meaningful conversation. Now, we're witnessing a significant cultural shift:

• Many people eat alone, absorbed in devices rather than engaging with those around them.
  ​
• "Refueling" on the go has replaced sitting down for a proper meal.
  ​
• Pre-prepared food has eliminated the shared experience of cooking together.
  ​
• Family dinners have become special occasions rather than daily rituals.
  ​
• Fast food has transformed meals from social gatherings into rapid transactions.

With demanding work schedules and competing commitments, fewer people make time to host gatherings around the table. As dining together becomes less common, table manners are quietly disappearing.

The Competitive Advantage of Dining Skills

Despite these cultural shifts, the business reality remains unchanged:

• Professional settings still expect formal dining manners
  ​
• Business deals continue to happen over proper meals
  ​
• Leaders evaluate you by traditional standards, regardless of current trends

In today's modern landscape, proper dining etiquette immediately distinguishes you from peers. How you handle utensils silently communicates your attention to detail, cultural awareness, and professional polish - especially when working with clients.

The Small Things That Make a Significant Difference

After years of observation, I've developed a comprehensive dining program. We filmed and photographed in my home studio, researched extensively, and created a program I believe is essential for modern professionals.

Consider this: how you handle introductions at a business dinner sends immediate signals about your professionalism and confidence. Even in a crowded restaurant, making the effort to stand when being introduced demonstrates respect. The simple act of repeating one's name creates an instant connection while helping you remember it.

An Invitation to Join My Dining Etiquette Webinar

I'm pleased to share these insights at Sheridan College's upcoming Life After Graduation Conference. This webinar is now open to you all, not just Sheridan alumni!

This 60-minute session will deliver a shortened, simplified version of my full dining etiquette program, focusing on the most critical skills that can make or break professional relationships. You'll gain immediately applicable techniques to enhance your professional presence during business meals.

Webinar Details:

• Date: May 22, 2025 at 12-1pm
• Event: Sheridan College's Life After Graduation Conference
• Webinar Title: "How is dining etiquette a powerful tool for relationship building?"
• In this webinar, you'll learn:
  • Why Dining Etiquette Matters
  • Dining Tips (When You're the Guest)
  • Table Setting Navigation & Dining Etiquette Fundamentals
  • Continental vs. American Dining Techniques
  • Professional Alcohol Protocols
  • The After Dinner Follow Up

For those interested in the complete dining etiquette training for your organization or team (which can be done in-person or live online), please respond to this email for more information.

Looking forward to connecting!
​
Warm regards,
​

Trina Boos
​
Founder & CEO
Boost Academy of Excellence