2 answers
Elsa
Student
Charleston, South Carolina
1
Question
Asked
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How can I prepare for the interview process if I have never done one before ?
Do you bring notes? How long do interviews usually last? How can I prepare?
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2 answers
Tony Roig
Volunteer
40
Answers
New Hope, Pennsylvania
Updated
Tony’s Answer
Hi Elsa,
I think it depends somewhat on the type of interview and for what position . As a retired Recruitment Manager, I've done and participated in lots over many years. As an example, I usually allocated 20-45 minutes for a "prescreen" type interview, usually the first and initial interview done typically by Human Resources in many mid-large companies, but it can vary quite a bit when it comes to smaller businesses. I found my video interviews typically longer than phone interviews. My questions are more general, conforming, reviewing, verifying and/or clarifying with only a few situational/behavioral type questions I would say for entry level, part-time/internship or non-exempt type positions than manager and professional/exempt type positions. I always recommend preparing for interviews and the extent really depends on the candidate and the position. Since interviewers will likely ask you about your fit for each of the qualifications that were listed on the job description, you may want to review your experience, education (training, certifications, etc), skills, abilities, and knowledge so you can share with them how and why are are well-suited to the role. You can practice by doing a mock interview and your college career office should assist you or you can find someone on your own accord. I understand people utilize AI for mock interviews but I don't know much about their use and effectiveness. Hope that helps and I'm sure others will comment and give you more suggestions.
Good luck,
Tony
I think it depends somewhat on the type of interview and for what position . As a retired Recruitment Manager, I've done and participated in lots over many years. As an example, I usually allocated 20-45 minutes for a "prescreen" type interview, usually the first and initial interview done typically by Human Resources in many mid-large companies, but it can vary quite a bit when it comes to smaller businesses. I found my video interviews typically longer than phone interviews. My questions are more general, conforming, reviewing, verifying and/or clarifying with only a few situational/behavioral type questions I would say for entry level, part-time/internship or non-exempt type positions than manager and professional/exempt type positions. I always recommend preparing for interviews and the extent really depends on the candidate and the position. Since interviewers will likely ask you about your fit for each of the qualifications that were listed on the job description, you may want to review your experience, education (training, certifications, etc), skills, abilities, and knowledge so you can share with them how and why are are well-suited to the role. You can practice by doing a mock interview and your college career office should assist you or you can find someone on your own accord. I understand people utilize AI for mock interviews but I don't know much about their use and effectiveness. Hope that helps and I'm sure others will comment and give you more suggestions.
Good luck,
Tony
Mandi Conger
Title Clerk
30
Answers
Nashville, Georgia
Updated
Mandi’s Answer
Hi Elsa! You have asked an excellent question. Preparing for an interview can be a bit of an intimidating feeling; however, you can always prepare! To your first point, you do not need to bring notes, but you may bring a copy of your resume. They will ask about your work history or any relevant experience you have that may pertain to the job. If you have no experience they may ask why you think that you are a good fit for that particular position. Have confidence in yourself but do not come off as arrogant. I would suggest maybe doing some practice interviews with your parents or a close friend, this will help you gain confidence when answering and allow you to be more prepared for questions. Interview times vary, there is no set time. Some employers like to conduct lengthy ones and some do not. Also some places hold more than one interview. I hope this helps!