Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Business Etiquette Practice Test

What should you do before you start your meal?

1. Start eating as soon as you sit down

2. Shake hands with everyone at the table

3. Wait to be served by the staff

4. Announce your meal choice loudly

The correct answer is: Shake hands with everyone at the table

Before starting a meal, it is considered good etiquette to engage with those around you, which includes greeting others at the table. Shaking hands with everyone at the table demonstrates respect and acknowledges their presence. It helps to foster a friendly atmosphere and reinforces social connections among guests. This interaction sets a positive tone for the meal and is especially important in business settings, where establishing rapport can be beneficial for professional relationships. In contrast, starting to eat immediately disregards the social aspects of dining and can be seen as rude. Waiting to be served by the staff may be appropriate in some formal dining situations, but it is not the primary action one should take when seated with others. Announcing your meal choice loudly could disrupt the meal and detract from the pleasant dining atmosphere. Thus, engaging with others before you start your meal is the most courteous choice.