I've been invited for an 'informal chat'

danothy

I applied for a part time job approximately a week ago, this consisted of an initial telephone screening (which was quite brief but covered all the main job requirement points) and an application pack (personal details, references and a personality test), all well and good.

Today I received a call inviting me to meet for an informal chat and to be shown around, also good, however I thought I'd seek advice on how to approach it. I was going to interpret 'informal chat' as 'interview' and try to pitch up looking smart (stopping short of a suit) and ready for a formal interview just in case. Does this sound reasonable? Any further insight or advice anyone has to offer would also be appreciated.

Logie143

What's the job for?

I'd say that's a good plan. It's better to be over dressed than under dressed. If you prepare for a formal interview you'll be prepared for anything that could come up, if it does turn out to be an informal chat though, try not to use all the formal interview lingo too much- might put them off a bit.

Good luck, and well done for getting the interview/chat thing!

danothy

It's a stocking job in a retail environment (I'm aware I'm being vague, apologies, I just like to keep my cards close to my chest until things are set in stone).

Logie143 wrote: »

if it does turn out to be an informal chat though, try not to use all the formal interview lingo too much- might put them off a bit.

I wonder if I could press you for a bit more elaboration on this too (for future reference), where would you say the line is in terms of formality of language for example?

sagalout1954

Seems like they want to take a look at you, see if you'd fit in with the organisation. Might be useful to have a few friendly questions, not too formal obviously. Smart (you seem to have that pretty sorted), smiley and plenty of eye contact when they show you round, though I wouldn't roam about trying to shake everyone's hand!

I think it's possible this is going to come up "so, tell me about yourself".................It's informal so I'd probably do a bit of personal stuff and a bit of professional stuff, but not longer than a couple of minutes max for the whole thing.

Good luck

Logie143

Aah ok, well I'd say keep the level reasonable but not too high. It's hard to explain really, but you don't want to be putting yourself over as arrogant or a know it all (not that I'm saying you are) but answering a question intelligently in everyday language, not talking about how 'a reduction in connective wrapping will increase profit yield from these pre-packaged products' instead 'hey, why not use less cellotape and save a bit on the packing cost'.

I know that's a silly example but you see what I mean, If it's with a manager and not HR then my experience of managers are they hate BS and want to see your ability to do the job intelligently, not your ability to spout rubbish.

Did I explain that at all? If not, be nice and smiley :-)

BonBon_3

I read into this that you have negotiated the first hurdle and are still in the race.

The 'informal chat' is the first step and should be regarded to all intents and purposes as an interview, because that is what it is - they are assessing you for suitability - as you are assessing them to see if you will be happy working with them.

It is important to look smart, clean, come across as willing and be ontime - better still - 5/10 mins early. Find out a bit about the company and have a ready answer to the question "Why do you want to join us"?

Oh yes one more very important thing- smile!!

Good luck.

BackOnTrack

I would interpret informal chat as interview and go for the suit, you could always say you are going somewhere else afterwards if they remark upon your smart appearance.

liney

BackOnTrack wrote: »

I would interpret informal chat as interview and go for the suit, you could always say you are going somewhere else afterwards if they remark upon your smart appearance.

Just don't say court...

Best of luck. Definately go prepared for an interview, and i would wear a suit, and take your passport with you for ID incase they make any decisions there and then.

Savvy_Sue

also beware of the casual question: if it's not a formal interview the employer might casually and informally ask friendly questions about your social life / family etc which wouldn't be right to ask in a formal setting.

was casually asked a question on the way to the lift once which gave me the chance to explain why I was applying for a less well paid job, which was really none of their business but I was happy to answer. If they'd been fishing for info on my plans to start a family I might have been less happy!

biggaz26

Go in a suit and if they ask tell them you have an interview after.

G

hippygran

Go really well prepared, as this in an interview, but in a more relaxed setting!
Be smart, be as well prepared as for a formal interview, but when you are there above all be YOURSELF.
Dont be phased by it, this is obviously a company who feel that an interview in more relaxed circustances will benefit both the interviewer and interviewee.
This is because a formal interview can be very stressful for the job applicant (not to mention the person doing the interview), and a more relaxed setting means they get to see a more rounded picture of the applicant.
So, yes treat it as an interview, be yourself, but always keep at the back of your mind that it IS an interview, and you are being judged as to your suitability, so also mind your Ps & Qs.
Wish you very good luck.