How to Mind Your Manners in a Formal Dining Job Interview
Sometimes, employers like to conduct a job interview during a meal. Make the most of your table manners while presenting yourself to potential employers. Follow these steps to make a positive mealtime impression.
Instructions
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Reserve an Appetite
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Eat in the company of others during a dining interview. Not eating could demonstrate a lack of manners and perhaps your inability to work with others. Plan to enjoy your dinner and win over your interviewers.
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Observe the behavior of the others at your table. Judge the table's level of adherence to dining protocol and match it to the best of your ability. Remember that you're at an interview, not a dinner party.
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Plan to interview at a relaxed pace. A formal dining interview can take longer than one in an office, so plan for 2 to 3 hours. Remember to keep your guard up--against yourself. Don't become too relaxed, but be as friendly as everyone else.
Play the Game
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Consider your potential employer's reasons for interviewing you at a formal dining establishment. Although conventional for some companies, this type of interview can also mean that the office is simply too busy. Interview time may not be available during the day.
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Do not be the first to uncover your plate. Notice the position of your utensils. If you're in doubt as to which to use for what job, work from the outside and move inward toward your plate as the meal progresses. Keep beverages to the right.
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Have fresh copies of your resume on hand to provide after the interview. Shake hands and offer thanks for the interview opportunity. Always present yourself with grace.
Make Headway
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Remember to ask for business cards on the way out. While the setting is formal, the environment is relaxed enough that making future contacts is more permissible.
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Use your best-grade paper to send a follow-up letter to your interviewer(s). Keep in mind that formal manners may continue here, and the image of the dining establishment may linger. Mention how your job interview was memorable and how you're appreciative of the opportunity.
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Tips & Warnings
Be on your best behavior. However loose and friendly your interviewers may seem or become, remember that you're being tested.
Avoid drinking alcoholic beverages if possible.
Steer clear from conversational material that is inappropriate for the workplace, such as anything that involves marriage, age, gender, race or sexuality.
