About Mealtime Interview
Mealtime interview can be really one interview that could be an appetite catastrophe in the making. If you are not amongst those who are comfortable having a meal in front of some glaring eyes then that’s what you can expect from a mealtime interview. However by preparing for a mealtime interview and a little psychological readjustment, you could well be on the road to come out trumpeting. Having meals together is seen as a form that creates bonding; it also helps facilitate friendships, marriages, deals, & religious communion. Mealtime interviews work on the same logic.
A job interview conducted while meal is being taken may bring thought to you that its all in a relaxed atmosphere but as in any other interview you will need to remain on full alert. Interviewers present during a mealtime interviewer have their eyes on you. Candidate could be called for a mealtime interview even after you think that have been through all the different interviews and probably in line to receive job confirmation letter. The luncheon invitation may see you have lunch with either the top executives or probably even the organization’s head.
This type of interview is important when your job requires interpersonal acuity. The organization would like to see how you are when it comes to a social setting. Do you remain charming & relaxed or you are evasive and uncomfortable. After all you would be representing the company on different forums as part of your job responsibilities.
Using the under mentioned mealtime interview tips you can ease the complexity of such an interview:
- Remember you are a guest at the interview so let the interviewer take the lead, once the interviewer is seated then you can sit down. Your order for food should be less extravagant than your interviewer. If the interviewer suggests a particular dish, try it. In case the interviewer asks whether you’d like to taste an appetizer it could be that he wants one himself. With things like tea, coffee or dessert give him company.
- If the interviewer starts a business related topic do indulge. But if the topic of discussion is movies or travel plans then do not start any business talks.
- If you have self dietary restrictions then during the mealtime interview you should set them aside. The interviewer is your host and being finicky would seem rude unless you absolutely must. If the need arises then tackle the situation by being tactful.
- Pick food items that are easily manageable and try avoiding spaghetti & barbeque ribs.
- You should practice how to discuss important matters while eating.
- Tell the interviewer that it was a splendid meal and wish him thank you.