VIDEO: Mt. Mercy students learn to navigate formal dining

In this tough economy, college students are fighting to stick out in the crowd.

But a business etiquette course at Mount Mercy College in Cedar Rapids is doing their best to help their students be more competitive.

Monday afternoon at Zins Restaurant, 27 Second Ave. SE, a group of students had the chance to participate in an five-course elegant meal during a “How to Navigate Formal Dining,” lesson designed to prepare them for uncomfortable social situations in business settings.

From everything like conducting an elegant toast, proper silverware usage, to learning the inner workings of networking at a business dinner, student were able to demonstrate their professional business skills.

Video by Jim Slosiarek

Anne King, the instructor for the course, said the purpose of the lunch was to help students learn how to navigate through difficult situations, and “smooth out rough edges.”

“I think we can all get a little rusty,” she said. “But the little things make all the differences.”

Since this course is being offered for the first time in ten years, King said she was really excited to watch the students interact in situations seemingly very intimidating for students.

Among the participants of the lunch was Luann Alemao, host and producer of the “Get Fit” TV show, who was a guest speaker.

Instead of just teaching students how to act, King said having the chance for students to learn to network with other business professionals can really help boost their confidence in a variety of situations.

“It's designed to help students master the social graces,” she said.