As you’re searching for jobs, getting an interview is an important achievement.
However, this is just one step in your journey.
The interview is the first place where you can present yourself so your potential employer can get to know you better and assess your qualifications.
To have a successful result and impress them, you have to be well prepared for this stage. According to GlassDoor research, 88% of hiring decision-makers agree that well-informed candidates make higher-quality hires.
Furthermore, by being prepared, you not only increase your confidence but demonstrate that you are thoughtful, engaged and knowledgeable.
This makes interviews a critical step in the hiring process and necessary for you to understand the different interview formats.
So let’s explore the most common types and how you can adapt to each one.
Common Types of Job Interviews
Job interviews can be done in two ways: one-on-one or in groups.
The traditional one-on-one interviews are the most common format, where you’ll get to talk directly with a hiring manager from the relevant department or an HR representative.
Group interviews bring several candidates together, allowing potential employers to evaluate how each candidate interacts within team dynamics.
The one-on-one format can be done in four ways: by phone, in person, virtually, or recorded.
- Phone interview: Often used by HR as a preliminary screening method to check if you fit the role. Since they can’t see you, it’s important that you speak clearly and with energy modulating your voice and choosing the right words.
- In-person interview: Here candidates meet face-to-face with the hiring manager or HR representative, allowing the reading of body language. Focus on dressing appropriately, maintaining eye contact and connecting with the interviewer.
- Virtual interview: This happens in platforms like Zoom or Microsoft Teams and is similar to in-person interviews, just via the web where technical considerations need to be taken into account.
- Recorded interview: In this format, there is no live interaction with the HR representative as you’ll have to record your answer to pre-established questions. To practice, take your time and try telling your answers to a camera.
The group format can be divided into two common types:
- Classic group interview: You’ll be interviewed alongside other candidates and you are assessed on your ability to interact with others.
It’s important that you balance standing out and showing you can collaborate.
- Panel interview: You’ll be interviewed by multiple people at once, likely each of them assessing different aspects of your qualifications. When you give your answer be sure to address the person who asked the question but also make eye contact with the other panelists.
Now that we’ve explored the main types of interviews, here is a practicable to-do list for each type.
Preparation Strategies
- Phone interview
- Prepare for questions about your background, experience and availability
- Thoroughly know the job description and expected qualifications to demonstrate you fit in with what they are looking for
- Have a few key points written down to jog your memory
- One-on-one interview:
- Research about your interviewer
- Bring extra copy of your CV in case it’s needed
- Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- Virtual interview:
- Ensure your camera, mic and wifi work well
- Familiarise yourself with the platform
- Use a neutral and clear background
- Make sure your face is well-lit to make it easy to read your expressions
- Recorded interview:
- Take time to think and practice your answers to make the best delivery
- Keep your answers brief and to the point
- Maintain eye contact with the camera
- Group interview:
- Prepare a quick and engaging introduction
- Balance active listening and speaking up when appropriate
- Be supportive of other candidates' ideas when you agree
- Panel interview:
- Research each panellist’s role and background
- Be sure to make eye contact with everyone and keep them engaged
- Prepare for different types of questions
Additional Top Tips
we want to include some universal advice that will help you make a lasting impression:
- Research the company: their values, mission and most recent news and achievements to show your interest
- Review the job description and prepare examples that match your skills with the role’s requirements
- Practice responses to questions like “Tell me about yourself” and “What are your strengths/areas of improvement?”
- Be ready for behavioural and situational questions, which assess how you’ve handled past challenges or how you might approach future ones.
- Use positive body language: maintain eye contact, smile, and keep an open posture (be aware of cultural differences)
- Dress according to the company culture
- Prepare a few thoughtful questions about the role, team or company culture
- Send a thank you message within 24 hours, mentioning key moments from your conversation
In conclusion, to make a positive impression during any type of interview you need to be prepared and adaptable. If you understand the format, practice your responses according to it, and show interest in the role, you can approach the interview with confidence and professionalism.
Don’t forget!
Every interview is a learning experience that puts you one step closer to achieving your professional goals.
If you need help to practice interviewing, do not hesitate to Contact us
