Interviews are a great way to learn more about a job position, increase your chances of being hired, and begin the application process. Knowing all the types of interviews available is the first step to a successful interviewing experience.
Here is an overview of the different kinds of interviews available to jobseekers, so you can be well-prepared for any type of interview.
What are the Different Types of Interviews?
Interviewees often get caught off guard when they enter the interview room, but understanding the different types of interviews can help you feel more prepared.
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Informational Interview:
An informational interview is an excellent opportunity to network with professionals in your industry. This type of interview does not necessarily guarantee you a job, but it can serve to broaden your connections for future job opportunities. These are usually less formal than other interviews, as the primary goal is to collect information, not to assess a candidate’s aptitude for the job. -
Structured Interview:
A structured interview is a standardized way of conducting an interview, where similar questions are posed to each candidate. Structured interviewing requires the interviewer to stick to a strict set of questions and allows the interviewee to answer with predetermined answers. This type of interview is often faster and more effective, as the interviewer can process the answers quickly and accurately. -
Behavioral Interview:
Behavioral interviews are a type of interview which evaluates a candidate based on their past experiences and behaviors. The interviewer will ask questions about the candidate’s past job experiences and successes, so it is important to have real examples to draw from. -
Group Interview:
Group interviews may sound a bit daunting at first, but knowing the proper etiquette for a group interview can be the difference between standing out or getting lost in the crowd. This type of interview frequently takes place in a large room, with a number of jobseekers and interviewers all competing for attention. Seeing how you interact with others in the room and respond to impromptu questions can give the interviewer a good indication of who you are and how well you would mesh with their team. -
Telephone Interview:
Telephone interviews are becoming increasingly popular and are a great way to save time and resources. Before, telephone interviews were seen as a tool to weed out the least suitable job applicants. Now, they are used by savvy employers to get an idea of who you are and how your qualifications match up with their job requirements.
Tips for a Successful Interview
Interviewers are looking for well-prepared, confident, and professional job applicants. Here are a few tips for making the most of an interview.
• Think of your answers ahead of time.
• Dress appropriately for the job.
• Come equipped with questions of your own.
• Utilize active listening strategies.
• Take notes throughout the interview.
• Follow up with thank-you emails or letters.
Interviews can be intimidating, but they don’t have to be. The key is to come prepared, conduct yourself professionally and politely, and show the interviewer that you are the perfect fit for the job. Knowing the various types of interviews available and how to effectively communicate your skills and experiences will give you an edge up over the competition. With the right techniques and strategies, you can make any interview into a successful one.
