WHAT TO EXPECT: INTERVIEW STYLES AND FORMATS


There are a number of styles and formats that you may encounter during an interview. Companies select the format used to interview potential candidates dependent upon factors such as job type, experience level and company expectations. It is best to be prepared for any of the styles or formats. 

INTERVIEW STYLES

Situational or Performance Interview
Candidate is given a scenario and asked how he or she would handle it

Behavioral Interview
Candidate is asked for examples of past behavior to help the employer predict future performance

Technical Interview
Candidate is asked about technical or job-specific skills

Case Study Interview
Candidate is introduced to a business dilemma facing a particular company and is then asked to analyze the situation, identify key business issues, and discuss how he or she would address the problems involved. Case interviews are most common for MBA graduates seeking work in consulting or financial firms. Such interviews require significant preparation.

Presentation Interview
Candidate is asked to present to an individual or group. Presentation topic is either provided by the company or may be of candidate's choice.



INTERVIEW FORMATS

Screening Interviews
Candidate is asked basic questions about his or her qualifications to help the employer determine if the candidate qualifies for an in-person or more in-depth interview

Telephone Interviews
Candidate is interviewed by phone; most often used for screening interviews

Tele-conference/Video Interviews
Candidate is interviewed by phone conference where there is a video visual of both parties and they communicate live. This format is most often used when there is limited budget for travel or the position is located internationally

One-on-One Interviews
Candidate is interviewed by one company representative

Serial Interviews
Candidate goes from one interviewer to another having individual interviews with each

Panel Interviews
Candidate interviews with a group of interviewers in a committee or panel setting

Group Interviews
Candidate is joined by other candidates in a group setting and each answers questions in front of the others

Note: One of the main interview styles is behavioral interviewing. Please review information about behavioral interviewing.