Understand every organization is unique. Each will be interviewed based on their budget, time, and organizational culture. Here we share a few of the types of interviews that are common and their Do's and Don't. You are welcome to share any experience you have.
1. Panel Interview:
Some organizations do not have the time to conduct traditional 'hierarchical' interviews where you meet with HR first, then the Hiring Manager, then the Head of Department. Ain't noboandss them accordingly when answering questions. This goes a long way.
- Look the person asking the question in the eyes. Also, maintain eye contact with others as well.
Don't: - Don't use bass tone for one person then use soprano for the other. Maintain the same energy for everybody.
- If you know you are not good with names then don't try to address them by their names. You don't want to be calling Yemi by Remi.
2. Phone Interview:
I like to refer to this as a 'Don't waste our time' interview. The organization uses this to check for organization fit, skills, experience, & qualifications before inviting you in for a face-to-face interview (if needed). That's why questions you get for this type are direct.
Do's: - Choose the best time and place for your phone interview.
You don't want to be struggling for space in a public bus when your call comes in.
Hence, a quiet place does the trick.
Place your notes and printouts in front of you. It will help you build relevant points.
Don't s: - Do not interrupt the interviewer.
Let them finish from the other end of the line before answering questions.
Make sure not to rush when speaking. Speak clearly.
The phone interview in itself can be a test to check your oral communication skills.
3. Stress Interview:
This interview is done to assess how well you can handle pressure. It is usually for roles that involve interacting with high-risk customers. In many cases, the interviewer will take on a personality that would make you question if you were in an interview.
Do's: - Be as cool as a cucumber.
It's all acting so don't fall for it.
Be creative in the way you respond bringing real-life scenarios to play.
This is where you can display those Hollywood skills you've always dreamt of.
Smile.
Don'ts: - Don't get carried away by the interviewer playing an angry customer.
You are there because you need a job.
Don't make it boring.
Stress interviews turn out to be fun eventually.
4. Face to Face Interview:
In many cases, this is usually the next stage after a phone interview. The organization wants to see if the 'foneh' you spoke on the phone is real. The face-to-face is also used to establish the great impression you must have created on phone/resumé. Shine!!!
Do's: - Prepare!!! Preparation is the key needed to unlock the job.
Dress professionally. - Answer questions professionally.
Ask questions when done.
Speak confidently.
Use terms related to your industry.
Send thank you notes when done.
Don't s: - Do not arrive late. It will affect your morale and you might turn out to be nervous if you are not relaxed before the interview.
Don't leave your phone on in an interview. If possible, don't take it into the interview.
5. Video Interview (The New Norm):
Also used by organisations when hiring a resource located far from their location. For instance, the company can be in India and a candidate in Lagos. Video interviews are now common as a result of the pandemic.
Do's: - Get yourself the best internet service provider.
- Make sure it's a quiet place where only you is present. Remember the CNN blooper?
- Ensure your video camera is clean.
- You can have your points on other screens in case you find it hard to remember points.
Don't: - Don't go to Starbucks because of free WiFi. Imagine someone spilling coffee on your laptop when the interviewer asks, "So how much would you like to get paid?"
- Don't schedule any visits during your video interview.
6. Group Interview:
This is the reverse of a Panel Interview where you have many candidates being interviewed at the same time. This is used to test candidates that will stand out in a group.
Do's: - Be bold with your chest. It is a competition, so speak out and let your accomplishments resonate in the room.
- Be unique in your personality and don't blend with the crowd.
- It's you and the interviewer. Not you and other candidates so focus on the interviewer.
As always, regardless of what type of interview it is, preparation is key. Also, knowing your personality and what works for you best can help channel your energy and what you need to focus on the most. Proper interview preparation is a key needed to unlock a job.
