Interviews
What is Interviewing
The interview is the key element in most job search campaigns. Your resume gets your foot in the door, but it’s the interview that gets you the job. The interview is your chance to show the employer how your qualifications fit the requirements of the job. It also gives you an opportunity to evaluate how well the employer and the position meet your needs.
Types of Interviews
Interview Tips
Sample Interview Questions
Interview Types
As a job seeker you could anticipate a variety of interview types. Ask the
coordinator of your interview of the type you’ll have in order to be prepared and
successful. Also, be sure to ask the name and job titles of the interviewers.
Phone Interview
Screening Interview
One on One Interview
Panel Interview
Peer Group Interview
Lunch/Dinner Interview
Second Interview
Case Interview
- Used to screen candidates for in-person interviews.
Tips:
- Turn off all distractions (tv, radio) and be alone so you can focus on the call.
- Have your resume, questions, paper/pen, company information by the phone and refer to them throughout the call. It is ok to make notes during phone interview.
- Project a professional image through your voice, dress; stand while you talk.
- Ask questions and clarify responses more frequently since you lack the verbal cues when meeting in person.
- May be conducted by one person or team.
- Designed to determine if you have minimum qualifications for the job.
- Could be in person (on campus interview), on the phone or even by video.
- Usually conducted by the Human Resources representative of the company.
- Sometimes accompanies a personality assessment.
Tips:
- Indicate that you have the skills/ experience desired.
- For phone screenings keep your resume/ portfolio close by for reference.
- Usually on-site and conducted by hiring manager.
- Questions are specific to the job and the company and designed to assess skills and knowledge.
Tips:
- Sell your strengths and offer strategies for potential supervisor to use in resolving issues the company may be facing.
- Usually conducted by three or more people from different areas in the company.
Tips:
- Direct responses to the person who asks the question while maintaining eye contact with the other members of the group, as well.
- Interview with possible co-workers designed to examine your “fit” with the company and to determine your leadership qualities/ potential.
Tips:
- Listen to ideas of others, suggest your own ideas and be approachable, rather than someone who “knows it all.”
- Designed to examine how you handle yourself in a social situation.
Tips:
- Follow your host’s lead.
- Select an easy to eat meal (stay away from potentially messy foods.)
- Do not order alcohol even if others do.
- Similar to first interview, but usually longer, involves more people; on site.
- Could include a combination of individual, panel and peer group interviews.
Tips:
- Emphasize the complete package you offer.
- Use the research you’ve done about the company/organization to respond to questions.
- Dispel any concerns.
- Listen carefully to each question and prove you’re ready to be a dedicated team member.
- Used primarily by consulting firms and for higher level positions.
- Simulates a work issue of the job and involves a presentation of the case/ problem.
- Designed to test your analytical ability, ability to think logically, poise and communication skills under pressure.
Tips:
- Don’t worry as much about “getting the right answer” rather use this opportunity to show your thought process and approach to solving the problem.
Before the Interview
During the Interview
After the Interview
- Research the company/organization and position you are applying for.
- Know yourself and how to communicate your experience, skills, interests, goals, values, and personality as it relates to the position opening.
- Acknowledge that your experience counts! Don’t discount your volunteer, part time, leadership, or other experience.
- Dress professionally and make sure your image matches your career goals.
- Be prompt, arrive at least 10 minutes early.
- Treat the interview like a conversation- respond to questions thoroughly and ask appropriate questions. Do not research during the interview.
- Listen to the interviewer’s entire question before formulating your response.
- Maintain a positive attitude.
- Evaluate the interview.
- Send a thank you note within 24 hours.
- Complete any follow- up instructions that were given in the interview.
Questions You May Be Asked
- Tell me about yourself.
- Name a strength and a weakness.
- Why are you interested in working with us?
- Why did you choose this field? Your major? Meredith College?
Sample Behavioral based interview questions
- Tell me about an experience working as part of a team.
- Describe a time where you faced an ethical dilemma. What did you do? What was the outcome?
- What leadership qualities do you think are most important in the work place? How have you demonstrated these in your current/past experience?
- Describe a situation in which you were under pressure and how you handled it.
Questions You Could Ask
- What are your expectations for the employee in this position?
- What have been some of the challenges previous employees have faced in this position?
- What is your timeline/ process for hiring someone in this position?
Unsure how you’d respond to these questions or have questions about the interview process? Set up an appointment with a counselor today.
