Interview Types
When preparing for an interview, it’s essential to understand the different formats that potential employers may use. This knowledge can help you manage your presentation and budget your time effectively, as each interview format requires specific preparation on your part. Below are several common interview formats that you should know about:
Traditional Interview
The traditional interview is the most common type of interview. It’s usually conducted as a one-to-one conversation, where the interviewer asks a series of questions, often working from a script with some follow-up or clarifying questions. In some cases, the interviewer may not have a list of questions, and it’s critical that you help keep your responses focused on their identified needs. To prepare for this interview format, you should research the employer and the industry beforehand and practice with sample questions.
Behavioral Interviewing
The behavioral interview is based on the premise that the best way to predict future behavior is to determine and evaluate past behavior. These interviews require special preparation and skill to perform well.
Employers identify a profile of behaviors of interest to the organization, such as customer service, initiative, planning, stress tolerance, organization, problem-solving, leadership, creativity, flexibility, motivation, teamwork, and technical knowledge.
The interviewer typically asks open-ended questions designed to stimulate recollection of a situation to explore how you have behaved in that situation. For example: “Tell me about a time you…”
• Balanced/prioritized several tasks within a short period of time.
• Dealt with an unproductive or uncooperative colleague.
• Found better ways to perform a task. How did you handle the situation?
To excel in this format, you should use the “STAR” Technique to organize and deliver your response to the question effectively.
Sequential Interview
The sequential interview is a variation of the traditional interviewing technique that involves a series of steps with several interviewers in a pre-planned sequence. Participants are typically drawn from one of two formats. In the first format, you will meet first with your future manager followed by meetings with peers, often from aligned departments within the organization. In the second format, you will meet with your future manager followed by a sequence of meetings with senior managers within the organization’s chain of command. To succeed in this format, you should treat each person you meet as if he/she were a key player in the decision-making process.
Group/Panel Interview
Panel interviews are becoming more common as organizations encourage more teamwork and group decision-making. This type of interview typically occurs at the employer’s location, and you should focus on one question at a time. Key attention toward the person leading the discussion but stay attentive and respectful to each member of the group by engaging all the panelists in the conversation.
Technical Interview
Many technology companies utilize the technical interview in their selection of new employees. Candidates are asked industry-related questions and are often asked to demonstrate various skills, technologies, or techniques. To prepare for this interview format, you should review your technical knowledge and practice responding to common industry-related questions.