What a Toronto food court revealed about Executive presence

As I finished my lunch and folded my napkin away, I paused to take in my surroundings at one of Toronto’s most popular corporate lunch hubs (Commerce Court) and made a striking observation.

Suits. Tailored outfits. Polished shoes. A food court at full capacity, filled with professionals, some who may hold senior roles, influence decisions, and represent powerful brands. 

And yet, not a single napkin on a single lap. In fact, I made a point of walking around and discreetly taking note of as many people as I could. I wanted to be certain. NOT. A. SINGLE. PERSON. And, before you ask, of course this is a must (even in a food court)! 

At first glance, this may seem trivial. Who cares about napkins in a food court? But this is precisely the point. Etiquette is not about formality for formality’s sake. It is about awareness, self-respect, and the message we send when we believe no one important is watching.

Because they always are.

Every interaction, especially the informal ones, communicates something. How you eat, how you sit, how you manage small details in public spaces all contribute to your personal brand. These moments reveal whether polish is performative or embedded.

In corporate culture, leaders often speak about values, presence, and professionalism. Yet culture is not built in boardrooms alone…it is reinforced in hallways, cafeterias, airport lounges, and yes, food courts. When basic social graces are absent in everyday settings, it signals something deeper: a quiet erosion of standards.

High-performing executives understand that perception is currency. Investors, clients, and peers don’t only evaluate what you say…they assess how you move through the world. 

Attention to small details reflects discipline. Consistency reflects credibility. Social awareness reflects leadership maturity.

The most successful individuals I work with don’t “turn etiquette on” for fine dining or important meetings. They embody it naturally, because it’s part of who they are...not a costume they put on when it matters most.

And here’s the uncomfortable truth: if we abandon standards in casual settings, we weaken them everywhere. Teams mirror leadership. Organizations mirror their people. Brands (personal and corporate) are shaped in the margins.

Etiquette is not old-fashioned. It is strategic. It is a soft skill with hard consequences.

In an increasingly informal world, distinction belongs to those who understand that refinement, awareness, and respect still open doors, often the ones that matter most.

Because success isn’t just about being seen. It’s about how you are remembered.