In response to a CV sent a while ago, I've been invited to "have coffee" with a consultant from a small boutique consultancy. The meeting was described as an opportunity to meet and ask questions ahead of a formal interview process. Just wondering if anyone has experience (from either side of the table) with this type of pre-interview. How informal is this really, and how much effect could it have on the real interview process?My guess is that since the firm is relatively specialized, it's an efficient way for them to let potential applicants know early on what they're really getting into.Also... dress code?

Dont be caught off guard - any contact prior to a job offer is an interview, regardless of what they call it or whether they offer you coffee and the last custard cream. Go dressed for an interview, treat it like one. Whether or not they intend it to be an interview, they will be forming an opinion of you - a bad impression now could end the process before it has started or be difficult to shake off later.

I agree with Mars.You mention it's a boutique firm so the consultant you are meeting probably just doesn't have a room available (may be near their client site).Suit up!

I used to work for a boutique firm in London which used to take potentials out for coffee before interviews. Like what the others have said, it is used to decide whether they will put you through the full interview process or not. Like mars said, definitely treat it like an interview.

Aside of what we have all said already - treat it like a formal interview, you can also use the opportunity to gauge informally what that person is like - in a social context. Just small things which can be useful when forming an opinon about the people at a firm (critical if this is a boutique) - are they polite/friendly to the cafe staff etc. Small things worth noting to reflect on later.

All good advice here. It's an interview, albeit with less of a commitment on their part to "take it to the next stage"!

I'm not a big tea or coffee drinker... or hot drinks in generalWould that affect my chances!?!;p

depends on your age anon mcs - I've read that excessive caffeine lowers testosterone in men in their 40s or older.Maybe that's worth pointing out in the interview? ;)

Ah, if they're showing off with hot drinks, just slurp it up and then spit it into the pot plant when they're not looking. Just like Mr Bean did with his pate.

maybe take your own pot plant in case one isnt readily available?

excellent idea, i recommend wearing it on one's head

probably works best with one of those hanging plants.

I could order an orange juice, but then again, I would need to have them take the pips out first...Too picky!?!May be just tap water then, but them seem a bit tight!?!

how about asking for a coffee with just a hint of insouciance, a tickle of Paris in Spring, and a sneaky hint of heather?Any size which isnt tall, extra tall, or spend all day in the loo would be fine please.

Alternatively, you could order a Mountain Dew and let out one heck of a deep, loud, resonant belch so as to impress your peer with your manly skills during this informal meeting?

Or let's face it, treat the whole thing for what it is, an informal / indirect interview...But come on Bushy Eyed - Mountain Dew!?! Yuck! Could have gone at least for a ginger beer, he's not interviewing at a back street kebab shop.Night night allF