Ready for every kind of interview? Learn how to be.
Job screenings and interviews often make candidates nervous, but the fact that you are invited to one means the employer wants to get to know you. Being prepared will help you bring your best effort.
| Interview Type |
What to Expect |
Tips |
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Screening
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A short meeting by phone or video call to assess candidates' basic qualifications. Some are automated, inviting candidates to record themselves answering a list of questions.
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Prepare to discuss your skills and experience related to the job. Refer to your resume as needed. Mention outstanding qualifications. If recording your responses, imagine speaking to a live person to bring energy and focus.
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Selection
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In person or video call. In-depth questions to evaluate your qualifications for the position and your ability to fit in. There may be more than one interview at this stage.
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Establish a connection with everyone you meet (before and after the actual interview). Highlight ways you would make a great addition to the team. Practice in mock interviews, and test equipment ahead of time if meeting by video.
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Behavioral
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Questions about how you have handled challenging work-related situations. This provides more information about your behavior, personality, and character.
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Review practice interview questions and write out thoughtful responses. Use stories from your background that demonstrate your skills and positive qualities. Practice your answers out loud.
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Panel
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Three or more people from different levels or departments ask questions about your qualifications and assess how you might fit with the team.
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Research the interviewers ahead, noting their names and positions. Direct your answer to the person who asked the question, but include the group in your eye contact.
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Skill demonstration
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You may be asked to give a presentation, analyze a business or client case and propose solutions, write a brief assignment or code, or demonstrate other skills relevant to the position.
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Run through different scenarios likely to come up and prepare for them. Practice your responses to build confidence. If you're asked to do complex assignments, be sure you really want the position before investing many hours.
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Group
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Candidates are interviewed as a group, often with collaborative assignments. The interviewer will assess how candidates interact and work together.
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Participate in discussions and activities. Lead on some responses but avoid dominating the group. Listen to other candidates and build on their contributions.
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Stress
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Questions intended to make you uncomfortable and to test how you will handle stress on the job.
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Keep your cool and take your time in responding to the questions. Don't take anything personally.
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Meet the team
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Meeting with your prospective coworkers to explore how you fit with the team.
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Learn about each team member's role and write up a couple of questions for each person. Listen, be friendly and open to their questions. It's OK to say you don't know something.
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Lunch
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Interview conducted in a restaurant to assess how well you handle yourself in social situations.
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Select items that are easy to eat neatly so you can focus on the conversation. Take your time, try to relax. A coffee shop location suggests a more casual conversation.
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