There is specific "bread etiquette" you may be interested to know about. First, it would be the responsibility of the person closest to the bread basket to take the basket and first help themselves. Then, they would hold the basket and offer to the person on their left and then their right, and then pass to the right. Regarding your concern about handling the bread, it is perfectly acceptable to take the bread with your hands and delicately separate it. Then break off a very small bite size piece, one at a time -- butter/oil (if desired) and eat, one at a time. Small pieces -- do not break off an amount which you find yourself eating two or three bites from.; You always want to be ready to respond to a question and contribute to table talk.

"Head of State" in the USA is a Governor or the President. A leader in another country might be a president, prime minister, etc.

How to address a FORMER head of state:

• Senators and Governors would retain their titles.
• House of Representatives would be "Mr./Ms."
• Heads of State - each embassy/country, may be different. Contact specific embassy.
• all others including presidents, do not retain their titles; they are "The Honorable" or in person "Mr./Ms."

The classic little "black dress" is always appropriate, with sheer black hose and moderate height pumps - suede is a notch above leather; patent traditionally in the spring and summer months.

Don't forget accessories: the little black purse, which of course, will never rest on the table - if the dinner is at someone's home you would either leave it with your coat or carry it with you-never to be seen on the table. If you are at a restaurant, again, never on the table but rather behind you on the seat or, on the floor (for security purposes).

French nails are a lovely touch.

It is NOT ok nor is it appropriate for a woman to apply lipstick in a restaurant or at the dining table. This should be done in the restroom.

The only possible exception might be a "ladies luncheon" -- totally unrelated to business of any kind.

If the bonus was part of the compensation package, a thank you note would NOT be necessary.

If the bonus was discretionary, a thank you note would not be REQUIRED; however, a simple walk into the person(s) office with a verbal thank you would suffice.

Two things to remember in general:

1. It is never inappropriate to send a thank you note (unless you are thanking someone for a particularly extravagant "thank you."
2. The home is not the place to send a company-related (thank you) note.

You read your place setting just like a map. The map will tell you where to go and what to expect next. Start from the outside and work your way in. Dessert fork and spoon are above your dinner plate. Solids on the left; (solids: salad, bread, butter, etc.) and liquids on your right; (liquids: water, wine, coffee, tea, etc.)

When calling on a client, announce yourself and who you are there to see, time of appointment and present your business card to the receptionist to avoid confusion, name repetition, mispronunciation, etc.; Never be caught sitting, browsing through a magazine when your host greets you in the lobby; be standing, right hand free to shake hands; make eye contact.