The Dinner Interview

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The Lion’s Pride: Interviewing

The Dinner Interview

As professionals climb the ranks, they may be interviewed in a restaurant over a meal. The company will likely even pay for the meal (and if they don’t, it’s a pretty good indicator you shouldn’t take the job!).

Dinner interviews tend to come in waves; they come into vogue, then are seen as passé. If, during one of the “new chic” periods, you’re called for a dinner interview, there are a few things to keep in mind.

Run recon. Professional speakers check out the venue before an event to become comfortable with it, and so should job hunters. Become familiar with the decorations, atmosphere and where the restrooms are. On your visit, take a look at the menu so you won’t waste time during the decision making process. If possible, take a menu with you or review their entrée items online.

Interview rules apply. Sure, it may be outside of the office, but it’s still an interview. Before going to the restaurant, it’s a good idea to review solid interviewing advice.

Prep your spouse. Hiring managers will often want your spouse or significant other to join you at the interview. They do this primarily to see the family dynamic and to see if you’re both on the same page. As such, review your strategy with your S.O. so you show a unified front. The hiring manager will ask your S.O. questions and s/he should be prepared not only to answer, but to ask questions as well.

Don’t order the cheapest meal. Of course, it’s also bad form to order the most expensive thing on the menu. Veterans of this corporate courting ritual will often suggest ordering the second, third, or fourth cheapest meal. If you spouse is with you, s/he should order a less expensive meal than you (this shows you’re the “alpha” in the relationship).

Ask about the meal. Let him/her take the first bite before you cut into yours. After s/he has had two bites, ask how his/her meal is. It’s more than just manners – it’s a bit of a power play. S/he who asks this question first is seen by the others at the table as the “senior,” and thus has the upper hand.

IN THE CARAVAN: Run recon, treat it as an interview, prep your spouse, watch what you order and grab the early power.

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