INTRODUCTION

An interview is a conversation between two or more people where one person (the interviewer) asks questions to another person (the interviewee) in order to gather information or assess qualifications. Interviews are commonly used in various contexts such as job interviews, research interviews, journalistic interviews, and investigative interviews.

TYPES OF INTERVIEWS

There are several types of interviews, each serving a specific purpose:

1. Structured Interviews – In a structured interview, the interviewer asks a predetermined set of questions in a specific order. This type of interview is useful for ensuring all candidates are asked the same questions and for comparing responses in a consistent manner.

2. Unstructured Interviews – In an unstructured interview, the interviewer does not have a set list of questions and instead allows the conversation to flow naturally. This type of interview is more flexible and can be used to explore in-depth responses and individual experiences.

3. Semi-structured Interviews – Semi-structured interviews combine elements of both structured and unstructured interviews. The interviewer has a general set of questions but can also ask follow-up questions or delve deeper into certain topics as needed.

4. Behavioral Interviews – Behavioral interviews focus on the candidate’s past behavior and experiences to predict how they will perform in the future. Candidates are asked to provide examples of specific situations and how they handled them.

5. Group Interviews – In a group interview, multiple candidates are interviewed at the same time. This type of interview can be useful for assessing how candidates interact with others and how they perform in a team setting.

6. Panel Interviews – Panel interviews involve multiple interviewers conducting the interview with one candidate. Each interviewer may ask different questions or focus on different aspects of the candidate’s qualifications.

7. Phone or Video Interviews – Phone or video interviews are conducted remotely, either over the phone or through video conferencing. These types of interviews are commonly used for initial screenings or for candidates who are unable to attend an in-person interview.

Each type of interview has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the choice of interview format will depend on the specific goals of the interview and the preferences of the interviewer.

TIPS FOR A SUCCESSFUL INTERVIEW

1. Research the Company – Before the interview, make sure you know about the company’s mission, values, and products/services. This will show the interviewer that you are genuinely interested in the role and have taken the time to understand the organization.

2. Practice Common Interview Questions – Prepare responses to common interview questions, such as “Tell me about yourself” and “What are your strengths and weaknesses.” Practice answering these questions with a friend or family member to feel more confident during the interview.

3. Dress Professionally – First impressions are important, so make sure to dress appropriately for the interview. Choose clean, professional attire that is suitable for the company culture.

4. Arrive Early – Plan to arrive at least 10 – 15 minutes early for the interview. This will give you time to check in, calm your nerves, and review your notes before the interview starts.

5. Be Confident and Positive – Show enthusiasm for the role and company during the interview. Maintain good eye contact, smile, and speak clearly and confidently.

6. Ask Questions – Prepare a list of questions to ask the interviewer about the role, team, and company. This shows that you are engaged and interested in learning more about the opportunity.

7. Follow Up – After the interview, send a thank-you email to the interviewer expressing your gratitude for the opportunity to interview. This will demonstrate your professionalism and interest in the role.

10 COMMON JOB INTERVIEW QUESTIONS AND HOW TO ANSWER THEM

1. “Tell me about yourself.” Keep your answer focused on your professional experience and skills that are relevant to the job you are interviewing for.

2. “What are your strengths and weaknesses?” When discussing strengths, highlight your relevant skills and achievements. When talking about weaknesses, focus on how you are working to improve or overcome them.

3. “Why do you want to work for this company?” Research the company beforehand and align your reasons for wanting to work there with their values, goals, and culture.

4. “Can you give an example of a time when you faced a challenge in the workplace and how you overcame it?” Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your response, highlighting your problem-solving skills and ability to handle difficult situations.

5. “Where do you see yourself in five years?” Be honest and convey your aspirations and how you see yourself growing within the company.

6. “Why should we hire you?” Highlight your unique skills, experiences, and qualifications that make you the best fit for the job.

7. “How do you handle stress and pressure?” Share specific examples of how you have successfully managed stress in the past, such as through effective time management or seeking support from colleagues.

8. “What is your greatest professional achievement?” Choose a specific and relevant achievement that showcases your skills, dedication, and ability to overcome challenges.

9. “Tell me about a time when you worked successfully in a team.” Use examples from past experiences to demonstrate your teamwork and collaboration skills, highlighting your ability to communicate effectively and contribute to a group effort.

10. “Do you have any questions for us?” Prepare thoughtful questions about the company, the team you would be working with, and the role itself to show your interest in the opportunity and to gain more insight into the position.

INTERVIEW DO’S AND DON’TS

DO’S 

1. Research the company and the position you are interviewing for.

2. Dress professionally and appropriately for the job.

3. Arrive on time or a few minutes early to the interview.

4. Bring extra copies of your resume and any other relevant documents.

5. Practice for common interview questions and prepare examples of your accomplishments.

6. Maintain eye contact, a positive attitude, and good body language.

7. Listen actively to the interviewer’s questions and provide thoughtful responses.

8. Ask questions to show your interest in the company and the role.

9. Follow up with a thank-you email or note after the interview.

10. Be courteous and respectful to everyone you interact with during the interview process.

DON’TS 

1. Don’t arrive late or unprepared for the interview.

2. Don’t use your phone or be distracted during the interview.

3. Don’t speak negatively about previous employers or experiences.

4. Don’t lie or exaggerate your qualifications or experiences.

5. Don’t interrupt the interviewer or dominate the conversation.

6. Don’t forget to research the company and the role before the interview.

7. Don’t ask about salary or benefits too early in the interview process.

8. Don’t bring up personal or inappropriate topics during the interview.

9. Don’t speak poorly about past coworkers or supervisors.

10. Don’t forget to send a thank-you note or email after the interview to express your gratitude for the opportunity.

11. Don’t interrupt the interviewer

13. Don’t answer vague questions.

14. Don’t smoke, chew gum, or place anything on the interviewer’s desk.

15. Don’t wear heavy perfume or cologne.

16. Don’t consume alcoholic beverages or order expensive entrees if the interview comprises lunch or dinner.