As ND students prepare for job searches and vocations after graduation, the Alumni Association helped prepare them for one of the most important aspects of their professional careers: the business dinner.
In November, the NDAA, in conjunction with the Alumni-Student Club, hosted a formal business etiquette dinner to teach students not only why business etiquette is an important part of being taken seriously as a professional, but how to enhance their etiquette skills.
More than 100 students attended the dinner in the North Dining Hall. They were joined by members of the NDAA staff as well as other alumni who were strategically seated at each table to interact with the students and help guide them through the etiquette lessons.
The event unfolded like a traditional business dinner, complete with a four-course meal. Throughout the event, Maureen Costello, principal of Image Launch, one of the top corporate image management consulting practices in Chicago, coached the students on everything from how to introduce themselves to their table mates, to what to do if the dinner conversation turns unprofessional.
In addition to her insights, Costello offered easy tips for remembering proper dining etiquette and advice about anticipating and handling uncomfortable situations gracefully, and she taught students how to perform as effectively and ethically minded professionals in business situations.
Costello’s business etiquette dinner was tailored specifically for Notre Dame students, placing emphasis on ethics and integrity.
“Many other places aren't asking me to talk about these things,” Costello said. “Employers are looking for people with discernment and integrity, employees they can count on to make good judgments to uphold the corporate brand.”
