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Are You Prepared for Different Interview Settings?

You will likely come across different interviewing styles and strategies. It is important not to be taken by surprise, so let's discuss some of the common types.

Panel/Board Interview

This is just what it sounds like: the candidate is interviewed by up to ten individuals in a group. Governments and medium/large organizations commonly use this process. One person may ask all the questions, or each member of the panel may ask their own. It is important to maintain eye contact with the person asking the question, and to give an answer with a supporting example. Always acknowledge the other interviewers by making eye contact with them while answering rotating questions. Direct your attention at the beginning and end of your response to the person who asked you that question. The questions asked in the interview are often set out in advance. The interview committee may have already decided which answers they will accept or prefer for each of their questions. Try to identify the leader of the panel or the supervisor of the position being considered. Think of the group as one person and try not to be intimidated. Try to ignore note taking by the interviewers, and don't worry - this type of interview is difficult to control. Get employers' names before the interview and use them during the conversation. Make sure you write down all the names and specifics when you get out of the meeting, as this will help when you prepare thank-you letters.

One-On-One Interview

One person interviews each candidate in a face-to-face meeting. These interviews tend to be more informal, however, it depends on the employer and the interviewer's style. The interviewer will often have a series of prepared questions, but may have some flexibility in what they choose to ask. It is important to maintain eye contact with the person interviewing you. When the interview is complete, both parties should leave knowing if it's the right fit or not.

Impromptu Interview

This informal and unstructured interview tends to be more of a "spur of the moment" meeting, and often happens when employers are approached directly. Applicants should be prepared at all times for this type of interview, especially in situations such as networking meetings, job fairs, or cold calling. This is a perfect opportunity for employers to ask the candidate some simple questions to decide whether they may be interested in formally interviewing the candidate.

Second Interview or Follow-Up Interview

Following the screening or initial interview, employers invite those applicants they are seriously considering to return for a follow-up interview. Middle or senior managers generally conduct these interviews, either in a group or individually. This interview will include more in-depth questions, and the interviewer(s) will expect a greater level of preparation on the part of the candidate. Applicants should continue to research the hiring organization after the first interview, and should be prepared to use to their advantage any information obtained in the previous interview.

Dinner Interview

These interviews may be structured, informal, or socially situated, such as in a restaurant. Don't be the only one at the table to order an alcoholic drink, and if you have an alcoholic drink, stop at one. Decide what to eat quickly, as some interviewers will ask you to order first - don't appear uncertain. Avoid ordering messy dishes, such as spaghetti or pizza, and don't order extremely expensive items such as lobster and shrimp. Be prepared for the conversation to change abruptly from friendly chatting to direct interview questions. However, don't underestimate the value of casual discussion, as some employers place a great value on it.

Telephone Interview

Have a copy of your resume nearby, and any points you want to remember to make. If you are on your home telephone, make sure that all roommates or family members are aware of the interview (avoid loud radio, stereos, etc.). Speak a little slower than usual. It is crucial that you convey your enthusiasm verbally, since the interviewer cannot see your expressions. If there are pauses, don't worry; the interviewer is likely just making some notes.

You may want to review other pages on this site that discuss other interview types, such as screening, non-directive, structured, reality, and group interviews. No matter what type of interview you have, you must know how to answer tough interview questions.