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I've never had an interview while eating lunch, the only thing that makes me less nervous is that it is eating out, plus the person I spoke to seem laid back. Not that this means I will take it less seriously.
But what do I do? I don't know what this person looks like, and do pay for the bill? I don't have much experience in this area, please offer advice!
I have had several interviews over lunch or dinner.
First rule; let your host order first and order something comparable, or less costly, never more.
2) take small bites so you can be ready to answer a question without the other person having to wait while you chew and chew and chew...
3) Never order an alcoholic beverage, not even beer. If questioned about it, just say you do not drink during the day, but I wouldn't admit I didn't drink at all, if you don't, unless pushed.
4) do not volunteer any information. Keep you answers short and to the point; don't ramble.
5) after the meal, though if you have been invited to the meal you are not required to pay anything, you may, if you can afford it or wish to, offer to pay the tip; nothing more. If the interviewer accepted, I wouldn't take the job.
Good luck.
Its good advice, however, I could use the having to chew bit as time to think...I'm talking 10 or 15 seconds not minutes...there a lot of social skills on display at a meal ...by showing you have them you can impress...if asked a question during a mouth full I would not rush to chew and swallow but show I am a civilized human being by holding up my " give me a second" finger (while nodding yes and smiling) taking a small sip of water before answering...right there they see that they aren't hiring someone who will talk to a client or customer with food dripping out of their mouth and that you are in control of yourself ...good qualities to any employer
I work in an industry with a lot of female bosses and many of them whip snacks out during the interview...and before you know it you have a plate on your lap and a cup on the table...and how you handle eating shows a lot about you
I have been on both sides of this table, and I agree with every single point here.
Only thing worse than being grilled in an interview is trying to not to spill food all over yourself while the torture is taking place.