Informal Job Interviews: 7 Dos & Don’ts to Help You Excel

Informal Job Interviews: 7 Dos & Don’ts to Help You Excel

informal interview

Informal interviews are becoming increasingly popular as a way for interviewers to evaluate candidates in a more relaxed setting. Having a chat over coffee in a public place will certainly remove much of the tension one usually feels in an interview room, but beware you’re not lulled into a false sense of security. Being too relaxed can cause you to get caught off guard, so don’t get too comfortable.

Here are 7 vital dos and don’ts to bear in mind for your next informal interview:

 

1. Do: Be Casual but Professional

Maintaining a friendly demeanour is important, but make sure you remain professional at all times. This is still an interview, regardless of where it’s conducted. If anything, being in an informal setting provides more opportunities for the interviewer to evaluate your conduct and personality.

 

2. Do: Go Prepared

Make sure you turn up with your resume and portfolio (if relevant) ready in case the interviewer needs to refer to them. Chances are he or she will already have gone over it prior to the interview, but it’s good practice to show up with the necessary documents in hand.

3. Do: Dress Appropriately

Depending on the type of company and job you’re interviewing for, it’s best to play it safe and dress in smart casual if not formal attire. It might be a casual interview, but you still want to make a favourable first impression.

 

4. Don’t: Be a Messy Eater

If it’s a lunch meeting and you have to order food, stay away from messy food such as burgers and massive sandwiches. You should already know this, but in case you don’t, when eating, make sure to swallow before you speak, and do refrain from chewing with your mouth open. It’s often the little details that make a world of difference.

 

5. Do: Take Your Cues from the Interviewer

Adjust your tone and manner in response to your interviewer. You want to mirror them in terms of how formal or informal to be. They’re running the show after all. That said, it’s never a good idea to consume alcohol during an interview, even if your potential boss is doing so.

 

6. Don’t: Be a Conversation Hog

Talk less, listen more. The interviewer isn’t just evaluating your compatibility with the company and job, he or she is also assessing your social skills in a casual interview. This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t talk. On the contrary. But you’re there to learn about the company and job prospects too, so take the opportunity to listen up when the interviewer is talking.

 

7. Don’t: Commit on the Spot

It doesn’t happen often, but candidates have been known to get job offers on the spot. If you happen to be one of the lucky ones, don’t allow yourself to be pressured into an immediate decision. Express your appreciation of the kind offer and ask for time to mull it over.

 

Now you know what to expect from an informal interview, just relax and show up ready to knock it out of the park! You’ve got this.

JobStreet Singapore