T.A.P. Q#385 – Should I Offer to Pay for Dinner?

November 25, 2009 by sparktalk

Dear Experts,

I’ve had an informal job interview with a company (upon their request) and have now been invited to come visit the company and plant. They are taking care of my hotel booking and have already informed me they will pay for my room. I will travel by car, at my own expense.

If they offer to have dinner together after my visit, should I offer to pay for dinner or at least offer to split the costs? Or, in your opinion, can I accept the invitation? I am a woman by the way, and I expect my meeting will be with a few men.

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Here is how our CAREEREALISM-Approved Experts answered this question on Twitter:

Q#385 The dinner is part of the interview process so it’s on their dime – your job is to “fit in” and say thank you. (@juliaerickson)

Q#385 Yes, you can and should accept an invitation. But they should pay. Protocol suggests that the interviewer pays. (@gradversity)

Q#385 Do not offer to pay or split the cost of dinner. The company should, and will pick up the cost if you are invited. (@DebraWheatman)

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