A lunch interview might be a bit out of the ordinary for you, but it’s the way many employers are choosing to conduct job interviews. If you have been invited to a lunch interview, you might have some concerns about how to present yourself. Some of these tips may sound exactly like what your mother told you growing up, But these are also great dining tips for a lunch interview.
Order an Appropriate Dish
You want to be mindful of what you order. If you order something that is too messy, such as a sloppy joe at a sandwich shop, spaghetti at Olive Garden, or ribs at a barbeque restaurant, you might end up with sauce on your shirt or worse in your lap. Also, should the interviewer be buying, you don’t want to order anything that’s too expensive, like a steak. A good strategy is to ask what the interviewer plans to get, and then make sure you order a dish of comparable value. And don’t order a humongous portion so you come across as greedy or gluttonous. Eat a light meal so you don’t feel weighted down or bloated. Remember this is an interview first and a meal second.
Use Your Napkin and Utensils Correctly
Doing things like putting your napkin in your lap and using forks, knives, and spoons when appropriate might be common sense. However, you should still make sure that you follow these basic instructions. You don’t want to come across as unprofessional or sloppy.
Chew with Your Mouth Closed
There’s no better way to turn off a dining guest than by chewing with your mouth open. Take small bites and chew thoroughly. You also don’t want to talk with your mouth full of food. Remember that this is your time to make a quality impression as a potential employee.
Keep Your Elbows off the Table
Remember to keep your elbows away from the table. It’s considered very improper and could make you look as if you aren’t taking things seriously. Instead, keep your elbows below the table. Should they accidentally make contact with the table’s surface, however, don’t make a big deal about it. Simply adjust them and focus on the interview.
Be Careful with Alcohol
For some, a drink can help them loosen up. However, in a job interview, it might make you too loose. If you want to feel calmer, you can do so by preparing in advance with meditation. Your interviewer might suggest a glass of wine or ask if you want anything, but it’s up to you. If they don’t bring it up, don’t even think about ordering any. You could end up sabotaging the interview due to drinking when you’re not supposed to.
When you are well-prepared for a lunch interview, you can show not only that you are the right candidate for a position but also that you have great table manners. Make sure you rehearse these tips in your head or in practice before the interview. When it comes time for the interview, you should be in great shape.
About the Author
Lizzie Weakley is a freelance writer from Columbus, Ohio. In her free time, she enjoys the outdoors and walks in the park with her three-year-old husky, Snowball.