How to Handle an Informal Interview?

How to Handle an Informal Interview?

Hiring managers, nowadays, begin with informal conversation. Instead of formal interview, they might invite you for a coffee. The intention behind the informal interview is to explore about you. Employers might go for informal meeting to see how you handle the situation and behave in informal meetings or may be trying to source some talent for future clients. 

They’re often a stepping stone to the formal interview and offer both interviewers and the candidates the opportunity to know each other. Whatever you say and do during these informal conversations will have an impact on whether you will be invited to the next stage, or offered a job. Informal interviews not only save the organizations’ time but also the money in the recruiting process. Here are some tips to approach informal interviews.

Is preparation required for the casual interview?

If you are thinking that it is just a casual meeting so it’s time to relax, then you are wrong. If you go to the informal meeting with such casual attitude, then the recruiter might think that you are not serious about the job and don’t want it. Therefore, take it seriously and be on time. Conduct extensive research about the organization, its’ products and services, achievements, etc. Also think of how the job role will suit you. Be ready to discuss your long-term goals. You can also your strengths that have enabled you to add value in various projects. Quote specific examples that generated results. Share with the recruiter how you could play positive role at the company. 

Does your dress matters at an informal interview?

Since it is not a formal interview, you don't need to dress in formal attire.Wear a clean and ironed outfit. Make sure that it is simple and sober. That way, your appearance won't distract from your qualifications but if you turn up in your tracksuit you’re probably not going to give off the best first impression. On safer side, business casuals are likely appropriate. Make a note to wear something that you are comfortable in, but remember that you are creating an image for a potential employer no matter where the interview is being held.

What to carry?

Take some extra copies of your resume and a portfolio. Carry a notepad and pen so that you can take notes when required. Don’t carry anything additional to that otherwise it will make you uncomfortable. To hold the notepad, pen, folder, etc. you can carry a bag but it shouldn’t be fancy.

How should I behave?

When you are in a casual setting, stay focused on the conversation, show your enthusiasm, and remain confident. Don’t hesitate. Be comfortable talking to him or her. Remember don’t relax, you can do this when your interviewer have parted away. Treat an informal interview as you would a formal interview, with professionalism at all times.

Should I eat or drink?

Yes, but be confident in your table manners. Make a note that though the food is present in front of you, eating shouldn’t be your first priority. If in case you are concerned about ordering something that is too expensive, ask your interviewer if he or she have been to the restaurant before and further ask for his or her recommendations. You will get a rough idea about his or her choice about the food items and also the price range. If you don’t want to find yourself with a mouth full of food during the entire conversation, order easy to eat things from the menu.

Will the recruiter give you on the spot offer?

Sometimes the cup of coffee may end up in a meeting room. Be ready for the further interview. The informal interview may be followed up by a formal interview. In some cases, you may end up being offered a job on the spot or in a short span. When the fit is right, even the interviewers are often eager to lock in a candidate. If you get this opportunity, be prepared to express your excitement and appreciation. If you want to think upon it, take your own time. Don't feel compelled to make a decision about the job on the spot.

Should one follow up after the meeting?

It's important to follow up after the meeting. As you know, the primary goal for their meeting with you is to know your interest level, send a thank you note after the interview affirming your interest in the job, if it has appealed you. Even if you aren't interested in the company, send a brief thank you. You can also connect the recruiter on LinkedIn.

Informal interviews provide a great way for you to demonstrate knowledge, abilities, skills, etc. Have an open conversation.  It provides you an opportunity to impress your interviewer to the best of your ability. Through informal interviews, most companies find it easier to observe their personality and whether they would fit into the culture of the organization.

Hope you are ready for the informal interview now!

All the best!

Rohini Shendre

Digital Marketing Executive

Talent Corner HR Services Pvt Ltd

About Talent Corner

Talent Corner H.R. Services is a professional human resources consultant providing innovative recruitments solutions to the corporate world. Incorporated in 2002, Talent Corner has now grown into one of India’s top HR Services Companies with Over 150 employees in Offices and located at 10 Locations across the country. We are currently serving over 900+ clients in diverse industries.

We are providing recruitment services in Bangalore, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Pune, Kolkata, Rajasthan, Gujarat, & Cochin. In a Dynamic Business World, Standardized Business Solutions don’t Often Work. Therefore we offer customized Recruitments and Executive Search Solutions for Companies across industries. Visit our website to know more about us at: http://talentcorner.in

Apart from High Quality Recruitment Services, Our Industry Demands “Ownership” in Business. Thus in Order to Scale, we have Developed a Unique Recruitment Franchise Opportunity to harness your Entrepreneur Aspirations. To know more about our recruitment franchise opportunities, visit : http://talentcorner.in/franchise-at-talent-corner