Recruiters and hiring managers use many different types of interviews. It is in your best interest to research and understand what to expect in a specific interview.
Many times you will be told the exact process. However, if you have questions, ask. The HR contact understands what is expected within the company and may assume that you know this information. Ask questions so that you can prepare thoroughly for the interview process.
Behavioral Interviews are intended to identify what you have done in the past and how you handled specific situations that will inform your ability to perform the job. In a previous blog post, I provided information on how to quickly and succinctly answer behavioral questions. Simply click the \”Interviewing\” category to find more information!
Technical Interviews evaluate the technical skills required for the position. Someone with expertise in the skills required will ask questions and evaluate the candidate on knowledge and skills. Be honest and explain your level of ability in each area. Do not try to appear knowledgeable in an area that is unfamiliar; state your willingness to learn anything required of the job.
Panel Interviews allow several interviewers to question the candidate at one time. Generally, the panel will take turns asking questions. The candidate must be sure to make eye contact with everyone when answering each question, not just the person who asked the question.
Phone Interviews are more difficult because there is no way to read body language or make eye contact. You must listen to tone of voice for clues to how the interview is going. One way to ensure that you sound as confident as you should is to dress the same way you would for an in-person interview. Stand up and walk around to ease nerves and look into a mirror to make eye contact and provide facial cues to help you project confidence.
Video Interviews, such as Skype, are becoming more common among both large and small companies. They allow interviewers and candidates to see each other and read body language. In order for video interviews to work well, be sure that your computer can handle the data streaming. Create a neutral background that shows nothing that could be offensive and ensure that the room lighting is adequate to light your face, but is not too harsh. Dress completely for the interview – you might be required to stand up at some point and you want to be completely professional.
There are many types of interviews, but these are currently the most common. Knowing what to expect in an interview can help you overcome nerves and project self-confidence.