Children once learned proper table manners at home. Don’t talk with your mouth full. Keep your elbows off the table.

Experts say that all but basic table manners went into the garbage in the last generation as baby boomer parents rebelled against convention and family lives became ever more hectic.

“To be cool, boomers didn’t stress manners,” explains Lynne Lancaster, co-author of When Generations Collide. “They wanted to be seen as young and hip like the kids.”

It’s the same with entertaining. Formal parties have become informal potlucks. Mom, after all, is just as busy working as dad, so neither has time to plan special gatherings.

As a result, today’s young businessperson is often clueless at a business lunch or social event, which can quickly turn disastrous. And your company can easily lose a big contract without knowing why.

So how can you avoid snafus at that next client lunch? How can you groom employees so they effortlessly impress customers?

Here are some pointers sure to leave a good aftertaste:

• Dress the part: Dress professionally for business meals, at least a good sports jacket over nice slacks or skirt. Even better, wear a suit. You can’t overdress, but you can certainly under dress.

• Arrive early: That shows respect and interest. Wait for the others before you’re seated at the table. If you must be seated, don’t disturb the table before they arrive.

• Business discussions: Wait until the menu arrives to talk business.

• Table settings: The more formal the meal, the more silverware and goblets will be used. Generally work from the outside utensils inward.

• Eat attractively: That’s what dining etiquette is all about. Don’t slurp or talk with your mouth full. Take small bites.

• Who pays?: The one who extended the invitation chooses the restaurant and pays the tab.

• Conclude properly: Always say thank you. And as a guest, follow up with a handwritten thank you note.

There are probably more rules around dining than anything else. These few tips can’t cover it all, so check out some dining etiquette books for the nuances. But beware: Even etiquette books can disagree, so review several.