Restaurant Interviews

Interviews may be held at a restaurant over breakfast, lunch or dinner. Even though these may seem more relaxed than a standard interview in an office, do not let down your guard. Remain focused on what you want to say, and do not allow the surroundings to tempt you into becoming over-friendly: remain professional.

Table Manners

Although your potential employer may be judging you on your ability to do the job rather than your table manners, it is essential to follow at least basic table etiquette; whilst the interviewer is unlikely to mind that you're not sure which knife or fork to use, they will not be impressed at a candidate who talks loudly with their mouth full, or who is rude to the waiter. It probably goes without saying that you should also avoid chewing with your mouth open, dunking bread into your soup, sneezing across the table or getting drunk.

Ordering Food

If you know which restaurant you will be going to, try to check it out before the day. Take a look at their menu beforehand (this may even be available on their web site) so that you don't have to devote too much time studying the menu during the interview.

Try to choose a small, light meal; this will give you plenty of opportunity to talk, and will also allow you to pay more attention to the interviewer and less to your food. You should avoid choosing messy food, such as spaghetti, lobster, spare ribs or soup, or any meals that require a lot of chewing. Make sure that you order something that is a similar price range to the interviewer or the others in attendance.

Dining Tips

During the meal, make sure your lips are clean and wipe them often. Talking tends to make you thirsty; quench your thirst with water rather than wine. If you are slightly nervous, you may find that you end up constantly reaching and sipping from your glass; another good reason for making sure that you have water or a soft drink on hand.

Never complain about the food or the service, and if anything unpredictable happens during the lunch interview (the waiter spills soup on your lap for example), stay composed and show a sense of humour.

If the interviewer requested a lunch interview, then they will pick up the bill at the end of the meal; however, if you initiated contact and requested a lunch meeting, then the bill is yours.

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