The question assumes that you are in mixed company and not just by yourself at your home.
It depends.
- If you are dining, then place it on the far side of your plate.
- If you are sitting at a table, but not dining, then place it approximately halfway between the dining position and the table edge.
- If you are standing by the table, then I’d go with about 4"-6" from the table edge.
- If you are standing by the table in a high traffic area, then I’d go with 6"-8".
- If you notice someone nearby who is particularly animated when speaking, then I’d aim for the centre of the table.
This answer assumes the table in question is a dining table. Coffee tables are a whole different kettle of fish; and don’t even get me started on side tables, bureaus and credenzas!
Edit: formatting
This is fantastic. I want to lick your brain (in an appreciative and consensual way).
I found I disagreed strongly, but that was for standing tables, for dining tables I agree without reservation. Well phrased!