Types of interview

Recruiters select interview formats based on the stage of the recruitment process, their objectives and the strengths competencies and qualities which they want to assess to meet the specific demands of the role that you have applied for. It is also important to understand the types of questions that you may be asked at interview.

Interview can be in person, over the phone or remote through platforms such as MS Teams.

Always ensure that you look through the details of any interview invitation to understand more about the format and structure as this will help you to prepare. If you are not given any information then it is ok to contact the recruitment team to see if they can give you more information.

One-to-one

One-to-one interviews

A one-on-one conversation between the candidate and the interviewer - it is easier to build rapport enabling more open communication and in depth interaction.

Panel

Panel interviews

Panel interviews involve multiple interviewers, each with their own expertise and perspective. This lets the recruiters see how you interact with different personalities just as you may need to do in the role.

This provides different perspectives for feedback and scoring, enabling a more rounded assessment of the candidate.

Group

Group interviews

Group interview involve multiple candidates, allowing recruiters to make direct comparisons between candidates. However they will be observing how candidates engage in group discussions, share ideas, and handle group dynamics or take leadership with the focus more on interpersonal skills, teamwork, communication, and ability to collaborate.

Look through this webpage on Interview tests and exercises for tips on group interview.

Telephone Live or pre-recorded video

Live or pre-recorded video

Live video interviews are similar to in person interviews but using platforms such as MS Teams to enable them to interview people from a variety of locations and taking away the need for candidates to travel to the recruiters premises.

Pre-recorded video interview involve candidates being asked to record their responses from a bank of pre-set questions. Some will give thinking time before you record your responses other may not. Some will allow you to record your responses, others will not, so always try to find out about the system before you start so you are prepared. This is increasing popular at the initial screening stage of the recruitment process.

Prospects: Tips for Video interviews

Informal

Informal interviews

This type of interview is most common if you have sent a speculative application in for a role or within a more social part of an assessment centre. This may be a more casual type of interview but remember that you are still being assessed as to your suitability for the role and fit for the organisation.

Prepare, as you would for any other interview even if you have been asked to pop in for “a chat”.

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