Business Profile

General Conduct During an Interview

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Types of Job Interview

A job interview is a process in which a potential employee is evaluated by an employer for prospective employment in a firm. After the interview, the interviewer will determine whether an applicant is suitable for the position.

There may be different interviews during a job search. It's important that the candidates understand the purpose of each. Three very common types of interviews are telephone screening interview, in-person screening interview and selection interview. Other types of interviews are also covered here. No matter which type of interview, the candidates' goal is to present their qualifications to the decision makers (the people who make the decision to hire or not). Not everyone the candidates come into contact with will be a decision maker. However, the candidates should treat each person as though they have the authority to hire them (from the parking attendant, to the secretary, to the CEO).

1. Telephone Screening Interview. This interview saves the employer time by eliminating candidates based on essential criteria such as particular job requirements, education or required skills. Since these interviews will often occur unexpectedly, it's important that the candidates' job search records are organised and kept where they can be reached at a moment's notice. Therefore it is a good idea to have a particular place in your home for your documents. Keep your resume in view and refer to it as needed.

2. In-person Screening Interview. This interview is used to verify the candidate's qualifications for the position and to establish a preliminary impression of the candidate's attitude, interest and professional style. A professional screener from the employer's Human Resources Department usually conducts the interview. At this stage, the goal is to select the most suitable candidates who will meet the decision makers.

3. Selection Interview. Conducted by the decision maker, the purpose of this interview is to probe the candidate's qualifications and to assess the comfort level with which the candidate might establish working relationships. There may be more than one interview at this stage. As the number of candidates is whittled down, a candidate may be invited back to speak with the same person and / or with other managers or members of the work group. The candidate's ability to establish rapport and present yourself as the right person for the position is critical.

Even if there is only one decision maker, the opinions of the others will be sought and will probably have an effect on the outcome. When you're invited to interview with a number of people, it's important that you present yourself effectively to each one of them. Remember, they will be evaluating your skills and ability to fit in. As always, be yourself, but sell to each person's individual concerns.

4. Work Sample Interview. This interview is done to allow the applicant an opportunity to "show their wares". It could be a time for a graphic artist to display his / her portfolio. A salesperson may be asked to make a sales presentation. An office worker may be asked to complete a business letter using a specific type of computer software programme.

5. Peer Group Interview. This interview is an opportunity to meet and talk with prospective coworkers. Just as in other interviews, the peer group will be evaluating the candidate, determining how he would fit in.

6. Group Interview. Sometimes referred to as a panel interview, it usually consists of three or more people, all asking questions. Direct your answer to the individual asking the question, but try to maintain some eye contact with the other members of the group. Don't forget to smile. It shows confidence.

7. Luncheon Interview. "The Meal" — This type of interview assesses how well a candidate can handle himself in a social situation. Employer representatives may include the Recruitment Manager, a person from the Human Resources Department and one or more peer group employees. Meals should be chosen carefully. A spill on a blouse or tie isn't likely to make a favourable impression. Select healthy and easy things to eat so you can answer questions and pay attention to the conversation.

8. Stress Interview. A stress interview introduces you not to an interviewer, but to an "interrogator". The interview is one in which the candidate is treated as though he is the enemy. The interrogator asks a number of offensive questions that are designed to deliberately cause discomfort. Keep cool, take time in responding to the questions, and when it's all over, reward yourself. Don't take it personally. This is usually a test of how you will handle stress on the job.

9. Video-conference Interview. Some employers today use video-conferences to conduct meetings or carry out other aspects of their business. Conducting an interview via video-conference enables an employer to save travel costs and still have, in effect, a person-to-person interview. If the thought of facing a camera during an interview frightens you, practise before a video camera or a mirror.