Master a few simple rules, and you’ll ace this mealtime meeting
You’ve applied for a job and made it through the initial phone screening and in-person interview. That’s great! There’s just one more hurdle to clear: an additional interview is in your future, but this time there’s a twist. The hiring manager and perhaps others want to meet for dinner. Interviews over meals (breakfast, lunch, or dinner) are becoming much more common as schedules get tighter and time lines for hiring get shorter. Here are several tips to help you make the most of the opportunity.
The most important work comes before you arrive at the dining spot. Find out the name of the restaurant and check out the menu online so that you can easily place your order when the time comes. Be sure to get the names of the people joining you for dinner, and take the time to learn about them. Use LinkedIn, Google, the company website — even Twitter and Facebook — to gather as much information as possible. You should also take a few minutes to find something of note in the news related to the industry or position that you’re applying for. Not only will this show interviewers that you’re prepared, but also it will serve as a great talking point in the event that there’s an unexpected lull in the conversation.
A large part of why interviewers like to meet over a meal is because they want to see how you conduct yourself outside the office. You should dress professionally, be polite and courteous, and remember your table manners. To be safe, refrain from drinking alcohol. Most importantly, turn off your phone! You want to show the interviewers that you’re someone who can represent their organization well in a public setting, so be sure to act accordingly.
Digging into that juicy steak can seem fraught with difficulty during the interview, but it shouldn’t be. The interviewers are expecting you to eat, so plan on it. But order something that’s easy to eat — stay away from messy dishes like spaghetti or soup, or foods that require you to skip the utensils and use your hands. Take small bites so that you can answer questions easily and without too much delay, and try to choose a meal that is neither the most nor the least expensive. If you’re concerned, ask your interviewer for a recommendation.
Treat a dinner interview as you would a regular interview. Get there a few minutes early, dress appropriately, be prepared to make conversation, answer questions, sell yourself, and remember that the interviewers want to learn more about you. This is your time to shine and to show them that you’re a poised, qualified candidate who’d be a good fit for their team. Also, don’t be afraid to ask questions about the company or position — it’s OK to clarify any points that will help you decide whether to accept a potential job offer. And follow up the meal with a thank-you note to each interviewer as well.
Remember, a dinner interview is a good thing! If you’re at this stage you’ve most likely already gotten through one round of interviews, so take that as a sign that you are doing something right! Use the opportunity to create a stronger connection with your interviewers, and to show them that you’re exactly what they are looking for.
Colton Harry, a member of the Choctaw Nation, is a manufacturing engineer/production manager at Procter & Gamble. Having successfully navigated his own dinner interview not that long ago, Harry hopes his advice will help others do the same.
What’s the most important thing a candidate can do to impress at a dinner interview?
At a dinner interview, the individuals doing the interviewing are trying to gauge whether you’d be a fit for their type of work and their company. The most important thing is to truly be yourself. Be prepared to speak about your accomplishments, likes and dislikes, and hobbies. This is your time to shine, so make sure to stress what you personally achieved. Ensure you are genuine as you speak about yourself and ask questions that are sincerely on your mind.
What can the candidate do to prepare?
Before an interview, do your research so that you know exactly what the company does. Understand what the company stands for in terms of ethics and values. Research current events that the company is involved in. Know the details of the position you’re applying for. Be able to articulate why exactly you would like this to be your career and why you’re the best fit for this position.
A good way to decrease any stress you may be feeling going into the interview is to practice. Pick multiple people you are comfortable with and ask them to interview you. They should be honest about the strength of your responses so that you can improve.
What are some tips for making a good impression during a dinner interview?
First, be knowledgeable about the company and the position. Second, do not be afraid to brag about yourself. This is your opportunity to show the interviewers what you’ve achieved both individually and as part of a group. Third, a firm handshake and proper eye contact are very important. You want to show interest and respectfulness as you’re speaking with your interviewers. Lastly, dress to impress. Remember: first impressions can make or break you.
What resources are available to help candidates make a better impression?
Use LinkedIn to look up information about the company you’re interviewing with. Also, utilize your college’s career development and alumni center. These departments can help with interview skills, perfecting your resume, and possible connections at different companies.
What else is important for candidates to keep in mind?
Keep in mind simple table etiquette and good manners. Make sure you are respectful when addressing the wait staff. Turn your phone off beforehand, and keep your attention focused on the interview.
After the interview, reach out to your interviewers via email and thank them for their time. This shows a sense of responsibility and gives you another opportunity to reinforce your interest in the position.
