When looking for a job, there are many different types of interviews you could be called to. Not all interviews are the standard type, where you sit down with Human Resources or Hiring Managers and answer their questions.
Instead, you may be asked to solve a problem, go to lunch, or invited to a Skype interview. It is important to know how to be prepared for each type of interview.
- Solve a Problem
In problem-solving interviews, you can be given a case similar to the ones you will be working with on the job. Your interviewer wants to know how you would solve a real problem. They will either want you to talk through your approach or see a written report.
It is crucially important to understand what the company is looking for here. They are assessing how you think about a problem, and trying to understand what you’d do as their employee faced with a similar problem.
Make sure your response shows how you think. Say, for example, your problem is a client who has reported their computer freezes every fifteen minutes, for about five minutes per freeze. Do not simply go in to fix the problem. Explain how you determine a plan for fixing it. Do you look for causes? Where do you look? If the cause does not seem to be where you first explore, what do you do then? Then, explain how you make sure the computer is now working.
- Go to Lunch
The lunch interview is a very good sign, because it often means the employer wants to know you better. Lunch interviews are often used to determine whether you will be a personal asset to a company, or a strong cultural fit.
But remember, it is still an interview. You have to ace it to get the job, just as you would any other interview. Prepare just as you would for any interview.
Be sure to get the address of the restaurant. Plan to get there ten minutes early, just as you would for an interview. Order something that is easy to eat and will not fall on your shirt. In other words, spaghetti is probably out. Also, never order alcohol at a lunch interview, even if your interviewers do. They could assume an alcohol problem, and you do not want that.
Follow the interviewer’s lead. If they ask questions about your experience and past successes, answer them. If they ask questions about sports, music or television, answer them.
- The Skype Interview
Skype interviews are often done to screen potential interviewees when there are a large number of applicants. Those who do well will be invited to an in-person interview.
Prepare as you would for a traditional interview, to discuss your strength, skills and notable past contributions. Your interviewer will ask questions, just as they would do if you were sitting in an office.
Be sure you know how to use Skype smoothly before the interview. Fumbling or being unsure how you get audio could disqualify you for the job, even if the job has nothing to do with video interviews. It could be perceived as a sign you tend to be unprepared.
Place your resume, notebook and pen next to you for reference. Be sure to dress professionally, as well. Dress as you would for an in-office interview from the waist up, which your interviewers will see. (You can wear jeans, since they will not see that.) Be sure children, pets or telephones will not interrupt you.
Contact Us
Here at Nesco Resource, we hire skilled professionals. If you are looking for a job, we can help you prepare for interviews and get the best position for your skills. Contact us today for additional information.
