You can also take information you gathered from these informational interviews and apply them to a regular one-on-one job interview. For example, you’ll be able to negotiate your salary better because you found out beforehand what salary range was for job you’re seeking.

The informational interview is almost like a hidden secret for job hunting success, since so few people use this technique. Get advantage over other job seekers by adding this powerful tool to your job search.

Michelle Roebuck provides job interview tips and resume writing advice at her website http://www.job-interview-and-resume-tips.com

3. CONSUME AND CONVERSE You are at an interview and also dining out. This means you need to not only be talking, but also eating. It can sometimes be difficult to do both.

Try and keep these issues in mind when posed with challenge of eating and talking at same time:

- YOU ARE IN CONTROL. Don't feel so pressured to talk that you don't eat at all. This can be interpreted as nervousness. - ASK QUESTIONS. When going to an interview, it is always a good idea to have questions. This will allow you get more information on company and show that you have done your homework. During meal interview, it will also give you opportunity to actually eat as your interviewer responds to your questions.

4. FINISHING WITH A BANG Unlike that of a standard interview, end of a meal interview does not just end with a handshake and a "Thank You". There are other things to keep in mind including:

- DON'T OFFER TO PAY. It's never expected of a job candidate, and you don't need to do it. - NEVER ASK FOR A DOGGY BAG. No matter how delicious meal was, requesting to take a portion of it home is not appropriate for setting. - REAFFIRM YOUR INTEREST. Let interviewer know how much you would like to work for his/her company. - A "Thank You" AND HANDSHAKE CAN'T HURT. As in any interview, don't forget to thank interviewer for taking time to meet with you. In addition, be sure to be gracious and say that you enjoyed meal and end interview with a firm handshake. Make sure to follow up with a thank you letter in morning.

CONCLUSION The meal interview is tricky, but not impossible. With a little guidance and a lot of confidence, you can sail through them with flying colors. Just try to keep these helpful hints in mind. Good luck and bon appétit!

We hope you found this edition helpful Selin, and we promise to bring you even more valuable career advice and tips next month.

This article can be read online at: http://www.worktree.com/newsletter/meal-lunch-interview.html

Sincerely, Nathan Newberger, Managing Editor http://www.WorkTree.com "Helping You Find More Jobs Faster"