Types of Interviews

[Enda Goodwin]

These days, with so much competition for good people, companies are using many different interviews to land the right person. So it’s important for you to understand the types of interviews you could be facing when you make that first successful connection with a hiring manger.

The screening interview

The company will usually conduct an initial screening interview to determine whether or not you should be considered as a candidate before having a longer, in-depth meeting. A screening interview can take place in person or by telephone. Most often it’s a human resources professional or a hiring manager, or even an external recruiter who conducts it. Regardless, it is still an interview and your goal is to keep yourself in the running and be asked back for another interview. While it’s rare that an offer is made at a first interview, be prepared to answer the salary expectation question, as they may use that as a decision point.

The behavior-based interview

A hiring manager wants to know if you’ll be the right “fit” for the company. So the interviewer will rate not only the job-related skills, but also the performance skills and style.

What does this mean? You may be asked a number of open-ended questions, like:

•  Tell me about a time when...
   
• Give me an example of...
   
• How would you...

In this type of interview, you need to respond to questions in ways that show your personal work methods and behaviors, and how those skills would help the company.

The group (or panel) interview

Group interviews are conducted for a variety of reasons: to allow all people involved in the hiring to interview you at the same time; to get a cross section of opinions; to see how you fit into a particular group; and to see how you handle talking with several people at the same time.

Make eye contact with everyone in the room, and make sure you know all of their names and titles. It’s okay to ask them to repeat their names if you didn’t hear it right. Any one of these people could have the make-or-break decision, so include them all when answering or presenting.

The telephone interview

We covered telephone interviews to an extent when we talked about screening interviews. But if this is a second interview, you need to be prepared and conduct yourself as you would in a face-to-face meeting. While not as personal, a telephone has its advantages as you can have your notes and research right there at your side

Some of these may seem obvious, but don’t forget them as you prepare for a telephone interview:

• If you have an assigned telephone interview time, make sure it’s you who answers the phone rather than someone else in your home
• If you are using a cellphone, make sure it’s fully charged and you are in a place where the signal is strong.
• Eliminate background noise, like loud music or barking dogs.
• Stay calm and smile. Fun fact: it will relax you!
• Stand up or sit forward in your chair. It will give you more energy and keep your voice clear and steady.
• Have your resume and notes readily accessible.

Video interviews

Video interviews are becoming common for both employers and candidates as hiring becomes more global. it's what hiring managers and recruiters use during first round interviews. They can be conducted more quickly and usually with less cost.

The video interview may be intimidating for some of you. But if you think about it, you’ll realize that this is simply a face-to-face interview, and you will be fine. We have tools and tips to help you prepare for your interview in the Interview Center.