August 15, 2022

18 Different Interview Types You May Encounter


Whether you're applying for a big or a small job, you will likely encounter several different interview types during the hiring process. 
 
It's important to know what kind of interview you will face next. There are some common types, and each has its own strengths and weaknesses.
 
This blog post will explore theeighteen most common types of interviews, and we will know what you can expect from each.
 
Please stay with me. Thank you.
 
            
 
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Table of contents

Interview Types

No doubt, most companies use traditional one-on-one interview formats, but some companies also use other types of interview formats. Different kinds of interviews help these companies to assess candidates more effectively.
 
Let's know 20 of the most common interview types.

Traditional interview

The traditional interview is the most popular type of interview. It typically involves meeting face-to-face with a hiring manager or recruiter to discuss your qualifications, skills, and experience for a job. This interview type is generally more formal than other types of interviews, and they usually last between 30 minutes and an hour. 
 
In a traditional interview, the employer will ask the applicant predetermined questions. The applicant will then have the opportunity to ask their own questions at the end of the interview. 
 
If you participate in a traditional interview, there are a few things you can do to prepare yourself:
 
  1. Research the company and the position before applying. This will help you speak intelligently about the organization and the role.
  2. Practice your answers to common interview questions.
  3. Dress professionally for the interview.
 
While traditional interviews can be a bit nerve-wracking, but they're also a great opportunity to make a good impression on a potential employer. So make sure your preparation is good enough.
 
 

Unstructured interview

An unstructured interview is a conversational interview in which the questions asked are not predetermined. The interviewer does not follow preplanned questions but instead asks questions based on the previous answers given. 
 
Unstructured interviews are often used in qualitative research, as they allow the interviewer to explore the respondent's thoughts and experiences in more depth. They are also useful for better understanding a person's motivations and opinions. 
 
These kinds of interviews are usually more informal than structured interviews, allowing the respondent to guide the conversation to some extent. It can be beneficial if the interviewer is trying to generate new ideas, but this interview type can also make it more difficult to compare responses across different respondents.
 
If you are being interviewed for a job, it is important to know that the interviewer can use an unstructured approach. This means that you should be prepared to discuss various topics.
 

Structured interview

In structured interview, the interviewer asks each candidate the same questions in the same order. The interviewer generally designs this type of interview to reduce bias, and it helps to ensure that they have evaluated all candidates fairly. 
 
The interviewers generally use the structured interview when it is important to compare candidates side-by-side. For example, many companies use structured interviews when hiring for customer-facing roles. 
 
Consider the skills applicable to the position, prepare yourself for the common interview questions, and win the job. Good luck.
 
On the other hand, if you conduct a structured interview, it is important to spend some time developing your questions. Make sure that your questions are job-related. Avoid questions that could lead to discrimination, such as age, marital status, or political beliefs.

Job fair interview

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Actually, what is a job fair interview? A job fair interview is a short meeting between a potential employer or company representative and a job seeker, usually lasting no more than 10-15 minutes. 
 
It allows employers to meet with many job seekers at once and gives job seekers an opportunity to learn more about a potential employer. 
 
Job fair interviews are usually relatively informal, and employers will typically ask a few basic questions about your qualifications and interest in the position. It is a good idea to come prepared with a short list of questions about the company and the position. This will pass positive signals to the employer that you are genuinely interested in the opportunity and have done your research.
 
When preparing for a job fair interview, there are a few things you should keep in mind:
 
  1. Dress professionally, and don't forget to bring copies of your resume.
  2. Don't forget to talk about your skills and experience.
  3. Be sure to practice your interviewing skills ahead of time.
 
This will help you to make a great impression and land the job you want.
 
 
 

Stress interview

What is a stress interview? A stress interview is a type of interview in which the candidate is deliberately put under duress to gauge their reaction to difficult situations. A stress interview aims to see how the candidate handles stress and how they think in a stressful situation. 
 
The interviewers design these interview types for high-stress jobs, such as in the military field. 
 
In a stress interview, the hiring manager will ask questions designed to make the candidate feel uncomfortable or under pressure. They may also try to throw the candidate off by abruptly changing the subject or testing their knowledge in an area they are unprepared for. In a word, the goal of a stress interview is to see how the candidate copes with the pressure.
 
No doubt, this type of interview can be challenging, but it can also be a great way to assess a candidate's suitability for a high-stress job.
 
Stress interviews are not the most common, but employers sometimes use them to understand a candidate's true capabilities better. 
 
If you face a stressful interview, it's important to stay calm and composed and to think clearly and critically about each question.
 

Competency-based interview

In a competency-based interview, the interviewer asks questions about the candidate's skills and abilities to assess his suitability for the job. Interviewers use this kind of interview to recruit for professional and managerial positions. Usually, they will ask you to give examples of situations in which you have demonstrated certain competencies, such as teamwork or problem-solving.
 
In a competency-based interview, interviewers may also ask about your past experiences and behaviors. Actually, interviewers try to find out whether you have the right skills and abilities for the job. 
 
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For preparation, consider your past experiences and behaviors relevant to the job you are applying for.
 
Competency-based interviews are becoming increasingly popular, as they are seen as a more reliable way to assess candidates than traditional interviews. This is because competency-based interviews focus on your actual skills and abilities rather than on your personal opinion or feelings.
 
If you have a competency-based interview next, it is important to prepare by thinking of situations in which you have shown the necessary competencies. This will help you to give the interviewer the best possible impression of your skills and abilities.

I think you are clear enough now about what a competency-based interview is

On-the-job interview

You're interviewing for a job, right? It's important to be prepared for anything. That includes the on-the-job interview, where the interviewer will ask you to shadow them for a day or sometimes a week to see if you're a good fit for the job. 
 
An on-the-job interview can be a great way to get a feel for the job and the company. But they can also be nerve-wracking. After all, someone is watching and judging you the whole time. 
 
Let's take an example. Suppose you have applied for a writer position. The interviewers have given you some information and asked you to write an article on it.
 
So be prepared for the unexpected situation. Anything can happen. Good luck.
 

Informational interview

Are you thinking about changing careers? Or perhaps you're just starting out and trying to figure out what you want to do with your life? Either way, an informational interview can be a great way to learn more about a particular field or company. 
 
An informational interview is basically a meeting between you and someone who works in the field or company you're interested in. The purpose of the meeting is to learn more about what they do and to get advice from them. It's also an excellent method to network and make connections. 
 
To set up an informational interview, start by reaching out to someone you know who works in the field or company you're interested in. You can try searching online or attending events if you don't know anyone. Now, will find someone, reach out to them, and ask if they're available for a meeting.
 

Mock interview

Mock interviews are conducted by professionals, friends, or family members to help interviewees practice and improve their skills. It's a way to practice your interview skills and get feedback from a professional.
 
A mock interview is usually conducted in a simulation of the real interview process. It's a great way to prepare for an upcoming interview. Interviewers can help you practice your answers to common interview questions, learn how to handle different types of interview questions, and get feedback on your performance. 
 
If you're interested in finding a mock interview, there are a few ways to go about it. You can request your friends, relatives, or family to conduct a mock interview with you. This will help you to get comfortable and make it easy to practice.
 
 

Second interview

You made it to the second interview! This is a great accomplishment and means that the employer is seriously considering you for the job. Now it's time to seal the deal. 
 
When interviewers take another interview after conducting the initial interview is called a second interview. Generally, interviewers conduct the initial interview over the phone, and the second interview typically takes place in person.
 
The second interview is often just as competitive as the first. Here are a few tips to help you prepare for your second interview:
  1.  Review your first interview. What went well? What could you have done better? 
  2.  Research, the company in more depth. What are their values and culture like?
  3.  Prepare for common second interview questions, such as "What are your salary expectations?" and "What are your long-term career goals?"
  4.  Practice your answers out loud, so you sound confident and polished. 
  5. Dress to impress and arrive early. 
 
Following these tips will make you one step closer to nailing your second interview and getting the job.
 

Group interview

In this type of interview (group interview), multiple people will attend the interview at the same time. The company evaluates multiple candidates at the same time for a position.
 
Experts' Tips: Listen attentively to what other candidates say. Then think of a better and unique response and answer when your turn comes.

Phone interview

The phone interview is a great way to screen candidates before inviting them to an in-person interview. They are also a convenient way to conduct interviews for remote jobs.
 
If you're new to the phone interview, here are a few tips to help you get started: 
  • Select a quiet, distraction-free space to take the call. 
  • During the interview, be sure to speak clearly and slowly. This will help the interviewer understand you and will also make sure that your answers are being recorded properly. 
  • Take preparation to answer common interview questions, such as "Tell me about yourself" and "Why are you interested in this position?" 
  • Follow up (send a thank you note) after the interview.

Panel interview

In a panel interview type a group of people will take interview, typically 3-5, rather than just one interviewer. This type of interview is usually used for higher-level or executive positions. Panel interviews can be somewhat intimidating, but they are actually not that different from a one-on-one interview. The main difference is that you will need to be able to engage with multiple people at the same time.
 

Case interview

A case interview is used to evaluate candidates for management consulting or investment banking jobs, in which the interviewer presents the candidate with a business problem and asks them to solve it. Interviewers use this type of interview to test a candidate's analytical and problem-solving skills. They are also a way for the interviewer to get a sense of the candidate's communication and presentation skills. 
 
If you are preparing for a case interview, you can do a few things to improve your chances of success.
 
First, familiarize yourself with the most common types of case interviews. 
 
Second, practice solving sample case questions. 
 
And finally, make sure you are able to clearly and concisely communicate your thoughts and recommendations. 
 
Related Articles: Case interview examples

Lunch interview

A lunch interview is a type of job interview in which the interviewer and the interviewee meet for lunch instead of in a more traditional setting, such as an office. This can be a more casual way to interview someone. Lunch interviews can be a good way to get to know someone in a more relaxed setting, but employers also use this type of interview to assess certain job-related skills, such as customer service skills.
 
 

Video interview

 
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A video interview is an interview that is conducted using video conferencing software. This type of interview is becoming increasingly popular as it allows employers to reach a wider pool of candidates and saves time and money. 
 
Usually, employer conducts video interview using various conferencing platforms, such as Skype, Google Hangouts, Zoom, and GoToMeeting. 
 
It's important to prepare yourself for a video interview. 
 
First, make sure you are in a quiet and well-lit space. 
 
Second, dress as you would for a traditional interview. 
 
And finally, be sure to smile and make eye contact with the interviewer during the call. 
 
With a little preparation, a video interview can be just as successful as an in-person interview. So if you're asked to interview
 

Behavioral interview

This interview-style focuses on your past behavior and experiences to determine your suitability for the job. 
 
In a behavioral interview, the employer or hiring manager will ask you questions about specific situations you have been in and how you handled them. They may also ask you general questions about your work behavior or other situations. Actually, the interviewer is trying to get a sense of how you will handle similar situations that may arise in the job you are applying for. They want to see whether you have all the necessary qualities or not. Behavioral interviews can be challenging, but they are a great way to show that you are the right candidate for the job. Good luck.
 

Final interview

Suppose you have successfully completed all the preliminary interviews. Great! Now get ready for the final interview to seal the deal.
 
I think from the above couple of sentences, you have understood what actually a final interview is.
 
That means the last step of the interview process is called the final interview.
 
But dear, don't underestimate this step. This time CEO or higher-level management will take your interview.
 
 

People also ask (FAQ)

Question: What are the three types of interviews?

 
Answer: 
  • Structured interviews: The interviewers decide what questions they will ask before the interview. Every question is predetermined.
  • Semi-structured interviews: Some questions the interviewers ask are predetermined, and the rest of the questions they generally ask are based on the response.
  • Unstructured interviews: None of the questions are preplanned.

Question: What is a focus group interview?

Answer: A focus group interview is a qualitative research method used to gather data about a particular topic. The moderator conducts this type of interview with a small group of participants (around 6 to 10 people). He asks all the participants the same questions about their opinion and experience on a specific topic. The data gathered from focus group interviews can be used to help businesses make decisions about product development, marketing, and strategy.
 

Conclusion

Thank you for being with me for a long time. This journey is almost finished. Yes, now you can claim that you know about all the interview types. Congratulation. Now it's time to prepare yourself. Good luck.

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