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The Interview Meal
by Gloria Petersen
The interview meal is where all our social graces come together. Meticulous dining skills communicate to others an unspoken level of sophistication.
If you have not frequented the restaurant, visit it prior to your interview. Become familiar with the layout, menus, ambiance and staff.
Confirm your appointment via phone, fax or e-mail the day before your interview.
If you have dietary or religion-related food restrictions, call the restaurant ahead of time and make inquiries regarding menu choices (Your interviewer may not ask you: you need to be prepared.)
Never be late! However, if you are unavoidably delayed, call the restaurant. The restaurant will make your apology and inform your interviewer of your delay. Briefly apologize upon arrival for the delay.
It is best to wait in the lobby. If you are seated, do not disturb the table before your interviewer arrives. You should follow their lead.
Do not bring your cell phone or beeper with you. If you must carry them with you, be sure they are turned off.
Do not look at your watch or fidget.
Order what can be eaten attractively, easily and quietly. Ask for a recommendation to help determine the interviewer’s budget.
Sit up straight, with both feet flat on the floor. Keep elbows close to the body and off the table.
Do not bring up employment-related questions before the interviewer does. The proper time to bring up these questions is over coffee or dessert at the close of the meal, unless the interviewer does so first. The beginning of the meal is typically the relationship-building time.
Do not offer to pay for the meal or leave a tip. You are the guest. Thank the interviewer.
Gloria Petersen is founder and president of Global Protocol, Inc. She is a popular speaker and contributing editor to many respected business and professional publications . You can learn more about her work at www.globalprotocol.com.
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