In general, there are four main types of interview:
1. Chronological – The interviewer will discuss your CV with you in chronological order and may ask you to explain how you got to this position in your career. You may also be asked where you see yourself in the future and what your goals are. Try to structure your answers to demonstrate what you can do for the organisation, rather than what you personally want to gain.
2. Competency Based – The interviewer may ask you to demonstrate certain competencies that are required for the job, such as leadership, team skills, attention to detail or resilience.
3. Role specific – This is often used for temporary roles or contracts where you are expected to already possess the necessary skills. You will be asked to give examples of occasions when you have performed the tasks listed in the job specification and what the outcomes were.
4. The ‘informal chat’ - A method generally used for temporary roles. It is often used by small companies that lack a Human Resources department or by a hiring manager or Director during a second or third stage interview. It is particularly appropriate when team-fit or commercial acumen is important, or when assessing how valuable you will be to the company in the future.
Most interviews for permanent roles will consist of two interviews and possibly a third telephone interview with a Senior Director.
First Interview - The purpose of the CV is to get you into the interview room (see CV tips). Typically a company will interview an average of 4 individuals at first stage, bringing an average of two back for a final stage interview.
Second Interview - The second interview is more detailed. You may still be benchmarked against one or two other interviewees, so small details can make a big difference. The interviewers will have discussed your strengths and weaknesses at length, and will have identified any concerns that they will want to address with you further. Obtaining detailed feedback from your first interview, specifically on your weaknesses, is key to succeeding at second interview. At this stage, more senior management may be brought in, questions become more specific and you may be required to complete a psychometric or technical test. show that you are organized by bringing a diary, and maybe a neat file with copies of your CV and any references and certificates that you may have. Any opportunity to open the file will make a good impression.
Avoid talking about money. Negotiating can be perceived negatively and will probably do you more harm than good. It is better handled by your agent. After all, you only have a small amount of time to make a good impression and demonstrate your worth.
Be positive about your experience to date and about where you are going in your career. Anything negative said about your previous or current employer may also reflect badly on your work experience.
Additional Interview tips for graduates