Second interviews?
If you are successful at your initial job interview you may get called back
for a second round. This is now an increasingly popular practice due to the
sheer numbers of excellent applicants for any role. Interviewers will want
to see if you can truly deliver and if your personality fits with the team.
A second interview will most likely take place with more senior staff too.
The format can be very similar to the first interview however some employers
may go further and set demanding tasks such as presentations and group work
to see how you cope under pressure. Be prepared for all scenarios and above
all don't let your guard down and think the job is yours just yet.
Group interviews
This format is great for determining if you are a good team worker. Group
interviews require skills such as communication, teamwork, decision making
and leadership. Think of the Apprentice; work as part of the team to deliver
the best results and avoid being either overbearing or just a wallflower.
Presentations
You are usually given a topic in advance and you should expect questions on
any aspect of the presentation. Prepare a professional presentation and use
cue cards if you are nervous. Spend time rehearsing and refining the presentation
until you can deliver it smoothly and confidently. This will help greatly
with nerves on the day.
Sequential interviews
You may be interviewed by a number of individuals in a series of short one-on-one
meetings. Questions may be similar from one interview to the next so make sure
you are consistent, even if you feel that you are repeating yourself. Repeat
your answers if needed and sure that the last interviewer gets as much of your
efforts as the first interviewer.
Here are some great tips for success in a second interview:
1. Preparation, Preparation, Preparation
This really is the key to success and even though you have done well in the first interview you still need to prepare for the second interview. Follow the same steps as previously, researching the company, perhaps completing greater in-depth analysis. Be mindful of any recent announcements the company has made since the last meeting.
Refresh your answers to the questions you were asked in the first interview. You may be asked some or all of them again and your interviewer might want to explore some aspects further.
Imagine yourself in the role; think about what you will do in the first three to six months in the job. What would you do to improve the department, the products or any aspect of the company? Overall, be very clear what you will bring to the role and how you are going to contribute and benefit your new employer.
2. Use the feedback
Get feedback on the first interview so that you know what particular skills they were impressed with. You can then capitalize on this when you meet again.
3. Research the interviewers
Try to find out the names of the interviewers and research their departments and interests. Their areas of expertise will probably influence some of their questions.
4. Network
You have been in contact with the HR staff from this company so don’t be afraid to ask more questions about how to prepare or what format the interview will take. The more information you have in advance the better prepared you will be.
5. Be consistent
Your personality, as well as your skills, has played a part in getting you this far so don’t change your style now. You can afford to be friendlier and a little less formal if you meet the same people again.
6. Refer back to your first interview
You may find yourself repeating some of your previous interview answers. This is fine as there might be new interviewers present and you need to show consistency. Refer back to your first interview and any key points that you feel would emphasize your ability to be a key member of the team.
Remember, the interviewers already know that you are able to do the job. The second interview is all about ensuring you are the best choice and that you will work well with the team. Be professional, sell yourself and answer questions fully while allowing your unique personality to shine through.