Most on-campus interviews include some sort of meal component. Many candidates dread those events for a number of reasons. Some have food allergies. Others have picky or restrictive diets. An increasing number have had limited experience with semi-formal dining etiquette. Most fear the pressure of having to talk while eating (if you have to talk and can’t eat, you’re left feeling weak for the rest of the day).
I’ve also heard of gaffes related to menu selections. Lobster? Too pricey. Small steak? Politically incorrect. Big Salad. Too fussy. Not to mention the potential dangers of alcohol consumption or the tricky world of ethnic foods.
Ironically, just about the only time most faculty members eat with one another is at those search dinners!
What suggestions would you offer for meals during the interview process?
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