Originally Posted by ElkeNorEast
I'm sure you will be perfectly fine with your current technique, but if you want to "fit in" and/or be looked upon as being adaptive, well-bred and educated, and of a higher standard than many American business people, I would suggest you at least make an effort to master the European way.
As many of us know, it is the little things that can set us apart and create a bond of trust and respect with other cultures. Being more "like them" can go a long way in developing warm relationships - especially with Europeans - and can reap you great rewards in other areas.
Europeans, Brits in particular, have been known to have horrendous teeth. Perhaps dental hygiene isn't a priority. Should Americans worsen their dental care to be as "well-bred and educated" as these Brits with a history of bad dental hygiene? Many "well-bred and educated" Europeans smoke after meals which to many Americans is highly offensive. Should these Americans begin stenching up the air to fit in with this crowd? The use of anti-perspirant/deodorant isn't as much a part of the European culture as it is the American culture. Should we adapt to wet and smelly armpits?
Your comments of appearing
more well-bred and cultured by adapting to the European ways of silverwear usage are equally as asinine as the examples written above. As long as people follow the universal rules of eating with their mouths closed, elbows off the table, no talking with mouths full, and no slirping of liquids, respect for others is thereby obvious.
Modgirl, follow common sense and you'll be fine. Ignore those who think that somehow Europeans are superior. That's bloated ego for you --- and very low class.