When it comes to
the interviewing process for most employers, the initial interview with job
candidates is used to whittle down the number of candidates to the select few
who best match the company’s needs and culture. Initial interviews are usually limited to a few interviewers
and a specific location, while subsequent interviews may offer several surprises.
Here’s what you should expect and what you should do to prepare:
- The
second interview may require the job candidate to be available for several
hours or even an entire day. Ask
in advance how long the interview is expected to last and then schedule for
possible delays.
- Second
interviews may also require the job candidate to meet with a committee of
people, partners, peers and even administrative staff. Expect the possibility that you will
need to travel from office to office and meet a variety of people who may
question you about your experience and what you have to offer the firm.
- Be
prepared to repeat yourself often.
In second interviews you may be asked some of the same questions by
different people, especially if the interview requires that you go to different
locations and/or meet with inexperienced interviewers.
- Bring
several copies of your resume and any other materials you want to share and be
prepared to give it to anyone who requests it.
- Before
your second interview, ask for the names of the people that you will be
meeting. Even if you are unable to
obtain a complete list, with a partial list you can at least do a little
research on some of the individuals and be prepared to converse about their
accomplishments or current projects.