Lunch/Dinner Interviews

Being interviewed over a meal presents some unique challenges. While you may feel more relaxed in this setting, your meal is not a break. Employers are still evaluating your abilities and paying attention to your manners.

Your host

• Follow the lead of the interviewer; they are your host
• Allow the interviewer to accept the check
• Thank them for their hospitality and the meal

The food

• Order a menu item that will be easy to eat
• Do not order wine or beer, even if your interviewer does
• Taste your food before seasoning anything

Good conversation

• Conversation is the point of the meal, not the food
• Engage in enthusiastic conversation
• Draw attention to your communication savvy

Etiquette

• When in doubt, look to your host and follow their lead
• Your napkin belongs in your lap when you sit down
• If you must leave the table before the meal is finished, place your napkin in your chair to signal to the waitstaff that you will be returning
• When the meal is complete and you are leaving the table, place your napkin beside your plate
• Utensils depend upon the number of courses. Begin with the utensils farthest from your plate and work your way in. Your dessert fork/spoon is located above the plate.