Most types of interviews can be difficult and stressing for most interviewees, but lunch interviews are specially complicated since the candidate you interview will not only have to be careful with every single detail that comes with a normal interview, he will also have to show manners. Question is… how are yours? Remember that, when not constantly applied, manners are easily lost, so check them out next time you go out for a meal and correct things, if necessary.
These are some of the things to be considered during a Lunch Interview:
Manners:
Remember that politeness at the table is important, it is an interview, but the way an applicant talks and refers to the waiter/waitress and staff in general can tell you a lot about the person who wants to work for you.
Pay attention to general table manners (people don´t chew and talk at the same time, smoke while you´re eating or put the elbows on the table).
What to order:
The best options on the menu are the ones that keep people clean and the ones you don´t have to grab with your hands during an interview. A lunch interview is not about the most delicious menu option, it is all about the safe menu option. Don´t forget to avoid onion and garlic!
The interviewee should order food that has the same price range as the one you order. In case you want him/her to take the first step then he/she should order something that is average priced.
The Doggy Bag:
Since you scheduled an appointment it is you who should always get the bill.
A doggy bag is definitely not appropriate.
Check for your interviewee to show politeness as he/she says goodbye and to finally let you know his/her interest in the position.
Tips for Interviewers:
Remember a lunch interview is not so different from a regular interview; main difference is that there are more details to take into account.
Clothing should always be the appropriate one for an interview.
If the interviewee arrives early he/she shouldn´t be drinking while waiting for you.
If you have an alcoholic drink it is not a bad thing that the applicant gets your same drink (after all, he/she will take you as a guide during lunch).
When you are ready to leave, everyone leaves.
The candidate should always pay more attention to you than to his/her lunch.
You should expect a thank-you note from the candidate mentioning lunch.
Make a list of topics you would like to discuss during lunch, remember that a lunch interview is longer than a regular one and you don´t want to run out of questions.
The fact that you are done with your meal doesn´t mean interview is over, keep your eyes open.
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