Follow-Up Interviews

Many organizations may have several interview stages to determine how you will fit in the organization. It is important to assess your strengths and weaknesses in your initial interview and prepare accordingly for your next interview(s).

FOLLOW-UP INTERVIEW TYPES

There are several types of follow-up interviews, but most will usually fall under these categories:

Structured Interviews

The interviewers have specific criteria they use to assess you. For example, one person may ask questions to determine your work ethic, technical skills, computer skills, or sales ability. Another person may only ask you about your educational background or your work experience. The key to doing well in a structured interview is to identify the specific quality or skill that is being assessed and direct all your answers to information about that area.

Unstructured Interviews

In an unstructured interview, the interviewer makes a broad evaluation. All interviewers may ask similar questions, but make sure to treat each interviewer with equal importance. Answering the same question repeatedly can become tedious, but try not to let it show. For example, “Why should I hire you?” Express to your immediate supervisor that you have the necessary skills to get the job done, as this person’s goals would be focused on how efficiently you can do the job. The president of an organization, however, may be looking at your potential for retention and advancement. The key to doing well in an unstructured interview is to identify interviewers’ goals and to answer their questions accordingly.

Panel Interviews

You may have a second interview that is conducted as a panel. This interview can be structured or unstructured. Remember to bring plenty of résumés for everyone on the panel. One tactic to doing well in a panel interview is to make eye contact with every panelist, while remembering that the person who asked the question should still have the answer addressed to him or her.

FOLLOW-UP INTERVIEW TIPS

Obtain an Itinerary in Advance

It is important to know the schedule of the day’s activities, including the names and titles of the interviewers. If possible, obtain biographical information about your interviewer. Many organizations post staff profiles on their website. Think about the goals of the interviewers in relation to their responsibilities, and respond to their questions accordingly.

Review Your First Interview

Review your notes from the first interview. Prepare your responses to effectively address these issues and questions. • What were the most important candidate qualifications? • What objectives did the employer want to meet? • Did you have trouble answering any questions?

Interview Trip Logistics

If travel is needed, ask employers whether they will make the arrangements or whether you should provide your own. Consider flights, car rental, and lodging. If organizations have not stated they will pay expenses, ask them in advance so you know what to expect. On your trip, maintain an accurate record and keep receipts for all expenses.

Day of the Interview

The same structure for first interviews applies to followup interviews. Be on time, dress appropriately, and anticipate the interview format. See page 31 for more information.

AFTER THE FOLLOW-UP INTERVIEW

Follow-Up Letter

After the visit, send letters (separate from the expense voucher) to the human resources manager, the person you would work for, the head of the search committee, and anyone else who interviewed you. Reiterate your interest in the job and stress positive qualities that you have to offer the organization. See page 34.

The Job Offer

If a verbal offer is made, you may receive a phone call anywhere from two days to three weeks after the interview. In non-business settings, it may be longer.

No Job Offer

If you don’t receive a job offer, stay positive! Reflect on your interview experience. What went well during the interview process? What areas could you improve?