TYPES OF INTERVIEWS

Every interview you have will be different, but interviews can also be categorized into some broad types. 

·         Screening Interview

This is usually the first meeting you have with a prospective employer. It is usually general in format and relatively short, lasting 30-45 minutes, or even less.  The purpose of this interview is to reduce the number of candidates to a manageable number.

·         Follow-up or Second Interview

The number of candidates has been reduced to a manageable number, but the final two or three candidates have not been selected. The purpose of this interview is to identify the finalist for the position. This interview is usually on-site at the employer’s location and often several people will interview the candidate. Conversely, the interviewers will ask more pin-pointed questions.

·         Selection Interview:

With the final candidate pool, the position’s supervisor; however, others may be involved as well. During this interview, you will want to have all your questions answered so that you can make a decision if you would like to accept the position if offered. Salary, benefits, professional development and additional areas should be discussed at this time (not earlier). The decision to offer the job to an individual is made at this stage after a review of the finalists’ interviews.

These phases of the interview process may take on different formats, rather than just an individual, face-to-face exchange of information.  Interview phases will vary widely, depending on the type of organization (private, government or non-profit), the size and culture of the organization, and the personalities of the people involved.  Interviews may also occur over the phone, in a group with many interviewers present at once, or during a meal at a restaurant. 

Regardless of the type of interview, you will be presenting yourself and your qualifications, but you will also be evaluating the organization. With careful preparation, you can interview confidently and effectively with each employer.  See a Pathways career advisor for assistance.