Ask the Headhunter

Dear Headhunter,

I am a new grad and had my very first interview recently for a marketing gig with someone in human resources. It was very much the stereotypical interview questions that I felt super prepared for and confident. Yesterday I received a call that the Vice President of Marketing wants to have a lunch interview before any final decisions are made! This is wonderful news, however, I am freaking out because I have no clue what is appropriate to order. Help!

Congratulations! The fact the the VP wants to have a lunch interview means this will be more of  a discussion rather than your typical Q&A style interview. While you may not be judged based on what you order, you will be based on what you bring to the conversation.

In order to effectively speak during a lunch interview, order something you have to eat with a fork and knife. Burgers or sandwiches can be messy and it is awkward to be tearing into a huge bite of food while asked a question. In addition to that, most people tend to talk with their hands and again, it is awkward too be waving a burger around to get your point across. It is also awkward to have messy fingers!

I would also stay away from pastas or foods that are heavy on the sauce. You want to avoid making a mess or having to wear bib during your interview.

When in doubt, order a salad! Clean, fresh and easy to eat!

Tom Johnston is the headhunter that headhunters seek to find talent for their firms. He is the CEO of SearchPath and has more than 18 years of experience in franchising, search and recruitment, and office development. Tom is recognized as a leader and authority in the executive search industry.