Interview Preparation — Types of Interviews

First, you need to understand the different types of interviews you may face during your job search. The four most common types of interviews are the:

1. Phone Interview
2. Face to Face Interview
3. Group Interview and
4. Meal Interview.

Phone Interview

Dress for the Interview
Prepare the House / Apartment
Prepare Documents / Cheat Sheets
Phone Etiquette
Listen / Ask Questions
Time Frame: 30 min – 1 hour

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Face-to-Face Interview

First Impression — Dress the Part
Arrive 15 Minutes early
Remember the Receptionists
Application Details
Interview Notes and Questions
Time Frame: 1 Hour – 3 Hours

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Group Interview

The group interview is much like the face-to-face interview; however, there are two to three people in the room at the same time. This interview is common with very stressful jobs such as a social worker or police officer. The group interview evaluates how you deal with the stress of a group setting as well as how you deal with multiple questions.

• Stay calm and answer each question much like a face-to-face interview.
• Take your time and speak to each person in the room.
• Ask each interviewer a question at the end of the interview to show that you are engaged and interested.
• This will be a bit more stressful; therefore your preparation is very critical.

In some cases, you can ask the recruiter who is scheduling your interview: "What type of interview should I be expecting?" If you follow these guidelines, you will be very prepared for whatever type of interview you face.

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Meal Interview

Eat before you go
No Alcohol
Ask for suggestions of menu items
Have money
Easy to Eat and Talk
Dining etiquette

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