By Sarah Breen, Inside Recruiter Resume Editor
With the increasing popularity of craft beers and events at breweries, it’s important to ensure your professional image isn’t tainted when out with colleagues.
Also, some companies will invite applicants out for a meal or an after-hours social hour during the interview process. Believe it or not, this is happening more and more not only for managers or executive-level positions but for early career/recent college graduates too. Employers are starting to see value in breaking out of the traditional interview setting so they can see a candidate for who they are in a normal every day social setting… But that doesn’t mean you should just let your guard down.
Drinks
Networking Events:
Do your best to limit alcohol to one or two drinks, if at all. If you are looking to network as a way to move into a new role, then honestly consider sticking with water or coffee. You want to be clear-minded throughout the event and do not want a potential, future boss or colleague to see you in anything but in a good light.
If you are there to meet new people, gain connections, or blend with the office culture then consider relaxing a bit and order a drink if you feel so inclined.
However, pace yourself and sip slowly throughout the event. This way you get the benefit of blending in, while minimizing the risk of being the “topic” of discussion around the water cooler the next morning…
Meal Interviews:
When the server comes, allow the interviewer to order first. If they request an alcoholic beverage, it is ok for you to do so as well (no hard alcohol). This doesn’t mean you should have the whole drink! A sip or two is ok, but limit your intake based on how much the interviewer is drinking.
They may finish their beverage, but you are there to present yourself as the best possible candidate, not get a buzz.
Meals
Networking Events:
The hardest part of being around the aroma of good food is not eating every bite of it! The second hardest thing is trying to balance a plate on top of a cup to wipe your hand before shaking the hand of a new contact. You can certainly get food but do so in small portions. It’s easier to alternate between taking a bit of food and having a container in your hand.
Make sure to use utensils when appropriate or find a table to put your plate on while talking to others. Steer clear of smelly foods or those with a lot of garlic; you don’t want your breath to be what people remember! Just in case… we suggest bringing mints.
Meal Interviews:
Do. Not. Order. Spaghetti! Or anything messy for that matter. Stick to simple and clean dishes that won’t splatter on your clothes or drop in your lap (consider salads, vegetables, and other “low-risk” non-greasy foods). Utilize the Contential Style for using your utensils. If you are not familiar, there are many helpful videos on YouTube – make sure to practice!
There are also basic dinner etiquette guidelines. They would be great to review to ensure you are using proper dinner body language and meal progression techniques. Here is a great video that will talk through body language, eating styles and overall dining etiquette. Remember, you are there to sell yourself as the best candidate, not just clear your plate. Keep your eye on the prize!
You might leave a little hungry, but with a new job offer on the way, it will make the sacrifice worth it. And yes, you should offer to pay.
What tips do you have regarding meal interviews or networking events? Leave a comment below!
