When it comes to job interviews, preparation is key. While the individual personalities of interviewers can run the gamut, there are only a finite number of interviewer styles, which can be broken down into three primary types. Here are three of the most common interview styles you’ll encounter and how to prepare for them.
The Conventional Interviewer
This type of person plays it by the book and will typically stick to a formal script. They seldom deviate from your standard questions and are often predictable with what they ask. In some cases, a conventional interviewer will be fairly new to their position and not quite comfortable going beyond routine questions. Other times, they are experienced, but want to ask the same questions to ensure objectivity with each candidate.
The good thing about these types of interviewers is they are arguably the easiest to prepare for. By having answers for the most commonly asked interview questions, you should be in pretty good shape.
The Casual Interviewer
This type of interviewer usually has one of two objectives, which is either to (A) make you feel more comfortable to eliminate any uneasiness or (B) get you in a relaxed mindset so that you’ll open up and answer hard-hitting questions with minimal resistance. A casual interviewer will be polite and friendly – and you may feel more like you’re catching up with an old friend rather than applying for a job.
In terms of the ideal approach to take with this interview style, act equally friendly and be courteous. However, you should keep your guard up and always maintain the utmost professionalism throughout the process.
The Investigator
Of the three types of interviewers, this style is by far the most difficult to prepare for. That’s because you may feel as if you’re being interrogated like you’ve done something wrong instead of simply answering interview questions. Often, the logic behind this type of interview is to place you in a stressful situation to better determine how you’ll respond to adversity or to pull back the layers to see what you’re really all about.
This person will fire off questions left and right and can easily catch you off guard if you’re not ready. The best way to handle this investigator style is be confident and remain cool and calm. Take your time, and think things through before answering questions.
When you break it all down, there are only a few main types of interviewers. By preparing yourself for each style, you can answer questions with poise and make a positive first impression.
For further advice and assistance on finding the right job for you, reach our to our experienced staffing professionals at Encadria Staffing Solutions or view our available jobs.