How to Prepare for Different Types of Job Interviews

How to Prepare for Different Types of Job InterviewsHow to Prepare for Different Types of Job Interviews1Congratulations You made it through what many consider to be the toughest part of the job search process- landing an interview Now its time to consider how to convince the employer that you are the right fit for this job.Check out these tips on how to prepare for differenttypes of job interviewsPanel InterviewCompanies that conduct panel interviews will typically bring in a variety of representatives (perhaps someone from human resources, a manager from the pertinent department, and an employee) to get a group consensus on candidates. Each person will ask questions and provide information relevant to his or her role.Key Try to connect with each member of the panel.Prepare a question for each person.Greet every individual with a smile and a handshake.Address and make eye contact with everyone, not just the rep you consider most important.Learn all names, and send each interviewer a thank-you note.Group InterviewThis technique is often used as a way to prescreen applicants for a particular position. Several candidates may be invited to a presentation about the company and the job(s) available. Each job seeker is likely to be asked a couple of questions in a one-on-one setting after the presentation.Key View it as a learning opportunity.Pay attention during the group portion. Jot notes on what stands out and statements that could use further clarification.Observe the interactions between those giving the presentation. You may gain clues about company culture.Use your question and answer time as an informational interview to determine how interested you are in working for this employer.Career Fair InterviewA variety of potential employers gathered in one place for the purpose of screening job candidates can feel like a pot of gold or a meat market, depending on your perspective. Your time frame to make an impression is often very limited, so be memorable.Key Foc us on getting to the next round.Dont just drop your resume and leave. Hold a conversation with the representative.Craft an awesome elevator pitch that gets the ball rolling and makes the employer want to know you better.Do research beforehand on companies of interest. Youll be able to ask thoughtful, intelligent questions rather than basic ones.Ask about the next step in the process, and follow up.Phone InterviewWhether the first step in a recruiting process or the sole interview tool, phone interviews need to be taken just as seriously as in-person meetings.Key Preparation.Secure a quiet place away from noise and disruptions.If using a cell, make sure its charged.Keep the job ad, your resume, and other information handy.Be ready with questions and talking points.Ask for an email address in buchung to express thanks and follow up.Skype InterviewEliminating the time and travel costs of an on-site interview, but providing a deeper impression than a phone conversation, video interviews are especially popular among companies with a global presence and ones hiring for telecommuting positions.Key Same as for a phone interview, but with a few additional considerations.Dress professionally from head to toe.Declutter your environment.Perform a test run with a friend to ensure equipment is working and you know how to use it. Practice will help you get comfortable being in front of a screen, and feedback before the event allows time to adjust lighting, volume, centering, and other things that influence how you come across.Lunch/Dinner InterviewIf there was travel involved for either party to make the interview happen or if the employer wants to get a sense of your social skills, you might be asked to interview over a meal.Key Stay professional in a social setting.Never order an alcoholic beverage, regardless of what the interviewer does. Politely decline if it is offered.Follow the interviewers lead on making a menu choice. Dont order a filet if they choose a hamburger.C hoose something that isnt messy or difficult to eat over a conversation (and preferably wont leave bad breath).Be sure your table manners are at peak formDestination InterviewHolding the interview at a coffee shop or other establishment is an option for companies that lack a brick-and-mortar office or prefer a more casual atmosphere.Key Same as for a lunch/dinner interview, but with a few additional considerations.Confirm all details in advance. You dont want to find out too late that your interviewer is at the Starbucks on Main while you assumed she meant the one on Elm.Ask how to recognize the interviewer. He may be hard to spot in a busy place.Remember that it is still an interview. Dress appropriately (business casual), bring your portfolio and other material, jot notes, come prepared with questions, and follow up within 24 hours to express gratitude and enthusiasm.Regardless of the interview scenario, dont sweat it if the process ends up being different from what you were antic ipating. Being able to handle whatever comes up in an interview is one way for companies to determine whether you are the right person to handle the job. Go in with confidence, remain calm, and roll with the punchesWant more interview advice? Check out our job interviewing tips category.Carol Cochran contributed to this post.