Introduction
It can feel like everything hinges on one interview, and the nerves can easily get to you. This feeling is normal.
But rather than letting it be the be-all and end-all of your career, allow it to be a learning process.
Interviews take practice. The more interviews you have, the better you’ll be at answering questions and seeing if a company is the right fit for you.
And to some degree, you must be able to sell yourself and your experience as the right match for the position.
If you’re wondering what to expect and how to start preparing, keep reading.
What types of interviews are there?
Here are a few of the most common interview formats:
Online interviews
Online interviews are quite popular as remote and hybrid work has increased over the last few years.
They have a few advantages compared to in-person interviews:
- You can set your notes up how you’d like and have documents in front of you during the interview.
- Location doesn’t matter as much.
- Your schedule is more flexible.
There are a couple of things to remember when having an online interview.
Firstly, make sure that you have a stable connection and that you’re in a quiet space, such as a room or office, so that there won’t be too much noise or interruptions.
Ensuring that you make a good first impression, which can make a huge difference.
Secondly, make sure to enter the online interview room about 5 minutes before the interview itself. Being on time will show that you’re punctual and respect others’ time.
Group interviews
There are two types of group interviews.
The first is more common, where multiple company employees interview an applicant. This is also known as a panel interview.
The other is where multiple applicants are interviewed at the same time.
These interviews are held online or offline, and you may not always know they are taking place.
Unless specified, prepare yourself for an unexpected group interview.
One-on-one interviews
One-on-one interviews can happen in the beginning or end stages of the interview process, depending on an organization’s preferences.
These interviews are a good way to build rapport with company individuals and get insight from the interviewer’s personal experience.
Practical tests
Many jobs require a specific skill, experience, or inclination for a role or position.
Practical tests, sometimes with payment, will be given to the applicant if they pass the initial screening. When this happens, the type of test usually depends on the organization’s preference and the role you’re applying for.
This test may be conducted in person, or it could be a self-test or task at home.
Rounds of interviews
It’s possible that there will be more than one interview to go through before receiving a job offer.
Usually, 2-3 interviews are typical, with some organizations pushing for 4-5 interviews before making a final decision.
Although, having too many interviews isn’t always seen as a positive thing and might be a sign of a toxic work environment. It’s best to carefully assess the situation as you go.
Here are the possible interview rounds you could participate in:
- Initial screening: do your skills and abilities fit the position?
- Technical interview or test
- Cultural fit or behavioral interview
- Panel (group) interview
- Final interview: usually with higher management
How do you prepare for an interview?
For thorough preparation, it’s best to have answers and multiple references ready to refer to during the interview.
Nowadays, there’s an emphasis on data and references to back up your experience.
Not only talking about your previous roles or tasks but also the positive contributions they had on the organization.
When an unexpected question comes up, these references come in handy.
It’s also important to research the company itself so you’re familiar with what they do, how they started, and what they’re currently working on.
I’ll go through the most common questions asked in interviews below!
Common questions
1. Introduce yourself
“Tell me about yourself,” the interviewer says.
This vague question is daunting and, without much direction, can leave you feeling like a deer in the headlights. But with preparation, you’ll be a pro.
When answering the question, focus on your recent career rather than your personal hobbies and interests.