I is also for Interval – which, due to a variety of reasons, is what we have had. Welcome to 2011 and our continuing look at Interviews, how to prepare for them and how to shine.
You will find many different types of job Interviews. These can include:
Structured: the interviewer usually has a series of questions prepared that will be given to each candidate. They can include behavioural or situational questions. Behavioural questions will be looking for how you behaved in situations in your previous roles, whilst situational questions will be posing hypothetical situations and looking for how you would respond in these situations. A subtle difference; but one which will impact on how you prepare and answer.
Panel: these interviews will have more than one interviewer – most commonly three interviewers. Predominantly used in public service interviews but can also be found in private companies. We will look at panel interviews in greater depth in a later blog.
Group: Usually used by large companies such as supermarket chains, hotels, airlines that recruit large groups of people. You start as part of a large group say 50 or even 100 people and it will be slowly winnowed down to the number of positions available. For example Flight Centre will use group interviews when looking for new travel consultants. The key to group interviews is to stand out from the crowd – not easy as you will probably have very little one on one time with the group interviewer. Your interactions within the group will be noted especially in activities. Group interviews will often involve role playing and team work activities. Get involved – don’t be afraid to voice your opinion. However, always be aware that you are being viewed and assessed so be genuine in your comments and opinions but not bossy or pushy.
Unstructured: Many interviews will be of this type. They are relatively informal and will be more conversational in tone. The questions will flow from the conversation and may not be structured. Beware the trap of becoming too relaxed and be aware that although the tone is more informal the interviewer will still be assessing your answers and making decisions as to your fit with the company, your skills and aptitudes required for the job.
There are other types of Interviews and while you may focus only on the job interview don’t forget that the techniques that will help you be successful at job interviews will also assist in other interviews.
Some other Interviews that Trischel has assisted candidates with are:
Viva Voces: This is a short interview between the student and the supervisor. Types of viva voces can include following submission of a thesis, medical examinations, academic entrance to courses (can be used in undergraduate and post graduate courses).
Defence Forces selection and Police entrance selection. Whilst similar to the usual job interview these interviews often place a greater emphasis on communication skills. So experience in answering impromptu questions and in selling yourself often plays a greater part in the selection.
Performance Reviews: At some stage in your working life you will face a performance interview. In most jobs this will be a regular event and again depending on the company or whether it be public service it can be very structured or informal. Many of the skills important for job interviews will equally apply at the performance review. We will revisit these interviews in a later blog.
Remember there are many types of Interviews: be aware, be prepared and be ready to shine and be successful at your next interview.
Trish @ Trischel