PEI researched proper business etiquette to compile the following list of best practices. Please share these tips with everyone in your company so your company presents its best foot forward.

Trade Show Booth Etiquette

• Stand up and greet attendees in front of your booth.
• If seats are needed, use tall stools that create contact at standing eye level.
• Speak with trade show attendees, not your colleagues.
• Sit down only if you are with a client who also wants to sit.
• Do not cross your arms or legs. Keep your hands out of pockets.
• Avoid fidgeting and leaning against booth walls and furniture.
• Do not enter the space of another exhibitor.
• Be enthusiastic, confident and polite.
• Stay off your cell phone.
• Thank attendees for spending time at your booth when they arrive and leave.
• Do not eat, drink or chew gum in your booth and keep food or drinks out of sight. (Some exhibitors issue staff-branded refillable water bottles, which ensure well-hydrated, professional looking staff.)

Business Reception/Meal Etiquette 

• Show people you hold them in high esteem by following business etiquette.
• Nobody likes shaking a wet, clammy hand. Shake hands after you’ve eaten and washed. If you're eating, greet verbally, and your client will understand.
• If you're at a cocktail reception, hold your drink in your left hand. It leaves your right hand free for handshakes without risking a cold, wet hand.
• Follow the lead of others (e.g., the host) to know when and where to sit.
• Hold doors for others.
• Don’t assume empty seats are available. Ask, “May I join you?”
• Allow others to take the better seats.
• Never place your cell phone on the table. Mute it, and keep it in your pocket or bag.
• Excuse yourself if you must answer a call. Apologize upon your return.
• Wait to speak until others acknowledge you in a conversation.
• Wait for the host before taking the first drink.
• Wait to eat until after everyone is served and the host has begun.
• Pass food to the right, counterclockwise.
• Cut one piece of meat at a time. Eat. Cut another piece.
• Do not cut your food by putting pressure on the side of your fork. Use a knife.
• Do not move food around on your plate.
• Try to make as little clinking with flatware as possible.
• Drink no more than two alcoholic drinks in a business setting.
• Allow the event host to make the first toast.
• Notify hosts of any dietary restrictions before an event.
• Understand how to use flatware: eat outside in.
• Remember "BMW": bread plate (left), meal plate (middle), water glass (right).
• Place the fork and knife in the 4 o'clock (or 11) position when finished. (Research country protocols before traveling internationally.)
• Place napkins on the chair seat or arm when briefly stepping away.
• When finished with your meal, place napkin on the table, not in your plate, and do not wad it.
• Thank the host in person prior to leaving.
• Want to really stand out? Send a thank-you note to your host within a week.