Invited to interview over a meal? This type of job interview is just as important, perhaps even more so, than an interview in a business setting. That's because it's less formal and more conversational and, if you're not careful, you could let your guard down and share too much personal information.
When you're invited to interview over a meal or a cup of coffee, take the time to prepare just as carefully as you would for an interview in an office setting. Here are tips for handling job interviews in restaurants.
Also, remember what your mom told you about table manners. She was right - good table manners may give you the edge over other applicants. Take some time to brush up your interview dining etiquette, so you make a great impression and ace the interview.
After the interview, be sure take the time to send a thank you note and include your appreciation for the interview as well as the meal.
Read More: Interview Guide | Interview Questions and Answers | What to Wear to a Job Interview
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In my undergraduate education I had a professor that spent an entire class on dinner/lunch interviews. One tip that stuck with me was “never order a alcholic drink until you have the job, even if everyone else is”. I agree with his statment, it is best to wait until you have the job to “celebrate”.