If you are reading this, chances are that you have finally landed an interview! Now that, that part is over with, it is time to start preparing for it. If you think you can simply walk into the interview and fill out an application and talk for a minute, you are mistaken. There are many types of job interviews and therefore several ways to prepare. Here you will learn about the top five styles of job interviews and the best ways to get ready to for them!
The Behavioral Interview
Many companies use behavioral interviews to help find the right candidate to fill their open positions. A behavioral interview is basically one that helps the interviewer figure out how you will react to specific employment situations that you will be likely to encounter. They ask questions that are specific to your job and educational history. They wish to know how you would handle situations that you are likely to encounter on the job you are interviewing for. They want to know how you handle situations where you were under pressure.
Tips:
- Comb over your resume before the interview
- Make sure you are very familiar with the job description
- Do some research on behavioral interviews so you can be ready for any question that you are asked
- Decide on which of your accomplishments is worth highlighting for higher consideration
The Informational Interview
This style of interview allows you to learn more about a particular job or industry by talking with someone who is already in the field. This allows you to grow professional while still applying for a job. It is like an interview and a lesson in the field at the same time.
Tips:
- Research the company before arriving for the interview
- Arrive at the interview with a list of questions so things run as smoothly as possible
- Bring a notebook with you so that you can take notes while the interview is going on
- If you have a business card, leave it with the interviewer to make it easier to keep in touch
The Meal Interview
This is an interview that occurs over a meal; usually lunch or dinner. This is more common for higher placement jobs in the corporate world. While this may seem like a nice, relaxed and informal way to have an interview, it is really a way for the interviewer to assess what your social skills are in public situations. Sometimes convenience also plays a role. For a busy employer, a meal time interview may fit better into their schedule since everyone has to eat.
Tips:
- Use your very best manners. This shows that you have class and understanding of social structures. It also helps keep distractions to a minimum during the conversation
- Pay close attention to what the interviewer orders to figure out what an appropriate choice would be for you. You do not want to order lobster when you dining companion is eating a Cobb salad.
- When you do choose what to order, make sure it is something easy to eat. You do not want anything complicated or potentially messy. For instance, even if your dining companion chooses a seafood meal, do not go for crab legs for yourself. This is harder to eat and can make a real mess. You do not want to embarrass yourself or the interviewer.
The Phone Interview
Phone interviews are a great way for employers to root out who they want to bring in for further information. It is the first interview that determines if you will get a face to face interview opportunity. Phone interviews usually last about half an hour. The biggest benefits of having phone interviews are that you can have your notes and other information with you and you do not have to dress to impress.
Tips:
- Keep all your notes about the company and job description on hand
- Keep your cover letter and recipe on hand
- You will need polished answers to any question the interviewer has. Practice going over questions you anticipate being asked
- Take the call in a room that is quiet and contains no distractions
- Use a landline if possible so there is no chance of dropping the call as cell phones tend to do
- Answer the call with a proper greeting such as “Hello, <insert name> speaking”
- Have an appropriate greeting on your voicemail in case you happen to miss the call. If you do miss the call, make sure to give a sincere apology and do not try to make excuse for missing it.
The Video Interview
Since the advent of certain internet programs, video interviews have become quite popular. They are a mix between a face to face interview and the phone interview. If the video interview goes well then the interviewer will likely bring you in for a face to face session. The most popular program for the video interview is Skype, so if you are job searching you should get familiar with this online tool.
Tips:
- Test your computer equipment to ensure that everything is in proper working order.
- Use a headset because echoes can be a problem during online video conversations.
- Do the video interview in an area of your home that is not messy looking or distraction.
Hopefully this has helped you to prepare for any type of interview situation that arises. Good look! I’ll be crossing my fingers that you get the job!
The post 5 Unconventional Job Interviews and How to Prepare for Them appeared first on Online Degree Programs from Top Accredited Colleges, Schools & Universities - Degree Pivot.