How to Handle Social Interviews, or “The Trial by Sherry”

One of the most potentially challenging types of pre-employment assessment is the social interview, also sometimes referred to as ‘trial by sherry.’ But how can you ensure you’re at your best during a social interview, and how do you handle the social setting whilst remaining professional?

Although on first examination the invitation appears to be an informal occasion, the reality is that the candidate’s suitability is still being rigorously assessed. As with every type of interview, preparation is vital.

What is a Social Interview, or a “Trial by Sherry”?

For those who haven’t encountered a social interview, or a “trial by sherry”, they are interviews which often include being invited to company social events, or meeting with the team in a more relaxed setting. This can include getting lunch, or even drinks with key members of the business or department you are interviewing for.

Here we take a closer look at why employers use this form of personnel evaluation and deliver some handy hints about how to get ‘social interview ready.’

Social Interview- The Purpose

Being invited to a social interview is generally a good sign as these usually take place at an advanced stage in the selection process. You’ve impressed the company with your performance so far and now they want to see how you interact with the rest of the team.

The purpose of this is to determine if you are a good fit for the company culture and to observe how you behave in a social setting – including testing your networking and communication skills. If you’re going to be interacting with customers or clients, it can be an invaluable assessment. It gives interviewers a chance to assess your body language, presentation, and overall personality, to see whether you would fit the company culture and your team

It is also an opportunity for the organisation to sell themselves to the candidate by demonstrating that the company offers a relaxed and enjoyable work environment.

Social Interview- The Dos And Don’ts

Relax, but not too much

Yes this is an informal environment and so it is important to appear relaxed, but never forget that this is still part of the recruitment process.

Employers want candidates who can engage comfortably with those around them but are watching carefully for any significant disconnect between behaviour at formal interview and that in the social setting. Be yourself, but be consistent.

Act professionally

Always be polite and courteous. Think how you would behave at a business lunch, spending time with each person, expressing your opinions but also encouraging their participation.

This is a chance to build rapport and show you are an adept communicator. Also remain focused on the job in hand and don’t duck out too often – this applies particularly to smokers.

Eat, drink but don’t be too merry

Food and alcohol is often provided at social interviews but should only be consumed in moderation. Eat too much and you’ll spend most of the evening with your mouth full- which means you are not engaging with the group.

Over indulge in the alcohol on offer and you could end up saying or doing something you later regret. Sidestep any foods which are messy or difficult to eat and always employ good table manners.

Stay on message

Focus as much as possible on subjects which are relevant to the job application.

Share information about your background, your interests (particularly where these dovetail with the skills required in the post and/or showcase your aptitude for team working) and appropriate industry knowledge.

Avoid potentially difficult issues such as politics, personal beliefs or relationships and refrain from telling jokes- your brand of humour may not be shared by the group.

Smoking rules

If you are a smoker, then it’s a good choice to refrain from doing so on a social interview.

Even if someone invites you to smoke, it could go against you in some form, as you do not know the preferences and opinions key team members may hold. Also, this would mean you may interrupt or miss a one-to-one opportunity with the hiring manager.

Time your exit

Staging a graceful exit is all a matter of timing when it comes to the social interview. Don’t leave first as it will look like you can’t wait to get away, but equally avoid being the last man standing.

Instead, strike a happy medium by staying for a short time after your prospective new boss leaves.

Following this advice will help steer you towards a more successful social interview- for more tips check out the expert guidance available from the professional team at interview-skills.co.uk.