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Types of Interviews

Not all job interviews are the same. Be prepared to experience several different types during your job hunt.

Telephone screening interview

Employers use this type of interview to eliminate candidates from a large pool. They often do this by asking questions about your employment objective, education, skills, or schedule availability. They want to make sure you meet the job's basic requirements before they schedule an in-person interview.

You won't always have warning of these interviews — sometimes an employer will telephone you without an appointment to ask basic questions. So make sure your job search records are organized and kept where you can reach them at a moment's notice.

In-person screening interview

This interview is often used instead of a telephone screening interview. It has the same basic purpose: to weed out unqualified candidates. This interview is most often conducted by a professional screener from the company's human resources department. At this stage, the screener's goal is to determine if you are a candidate for meeting with the decision maker.

Selection interview

These types of interviews are conducted by a decision maker. Usually, this is the manager who will supervise the employee. He or she meets with you to learn more about your qualifications and assess whether you are a good fit for the job. You might be asked to come back a second time, to speak with the same person and/or with other managers or members of the work group. Each time, your ability to establish rapport and present yourself as the right person for the position is critical to achieving the next step. The opinions of many people usually have an effect on the employer's final decision.

Selection interviews happen in many different formats. See the overviews below to help prepare for whatever type of interview you may be called to.

  
Work sample interview Gives you a chance to show samples of work you've done or demonstrate your skills. For example, if you are a graphic artist, you show the pieces of work in your portfolio. If you're a salesperson, you make a sales presentation. If you're applying for a job as an office worker, you may be asked to type and format a business letter.
Peer group interview Provides an opportunity for you to meet and talk with your prospective coworkers. Just as in other interviews, the peer group will be evaluating you and determining how you fit.
Group or panel interview Consists of three or more people, all asking you questions. For each question, direct your answer to the individual asking the question, but strive to maintain some eye contact with the other members of the group.
Luncheon interview (also known as "The Meal") Employers sometimes use a meal interview to see how well you can handle yourself in a social situation. Company representatives attending may include the hiring manager, a human resources department member, and one or more peer employees. Some advice: choose your meal carefully. Make sure it is easy to eat, so you do not have to worry about spills.
Stress interview Involves being asked difficult or even offensive questions that are designed to deliberately make you uncomfortable. Keep your cool, take your time in responding to the questions, and when it's all over, reward yourself.
Video conference interview Uses video-conferencing technology to allow people from different locations to interview you without traveling. Practice in front of a mirror or have a friend videotape you to help ensure that you can effectively communicate via camera.