Q I have an interview soon, and am being brought to lunch afterwards to meet some of the team. I am a little anxious as to how to conduct myself during the meal.
Any advice?
A Your potential employer may want to see how you act in less formal business situations. You may have to entertain business associates or clients in your new role. Whatever the motive you must conduct yourself appropriately - this is still an interview.
Wait for your host to ask you to sit down. If they don't ask, wait for them to sit. Pull your chair into the table and sit up straight. Don't push your chair back from the table so that you can cross your legs. Make a point of remembering names as you are introduced.
As a general rule, leave your jacket on. If the room is particularly hot, it is appropriate to ask the host if you may take it off. In situations where your host removes their jacket as they sit down, feel free to follow their lead.
Order fruit juice or water to drink . . . alcohol is best avoided. At most, one glass of wine, sipped very slowly, is acceptable, if your host has ordered alcohol.
Order a meal that is easy to eat, and discuss any food allergies discreetly with the waiter. Eat in small amounts, so you can maintain conversation around the table throughout the meal.
Keep the conversation semi-formal, remember you are selling yourself. Listen attentively, and ask discreet open questions to build relationships with your potential colleagues. Be professional, polite and most of all enthusiastic about the role.
|