Interview Format Frequently Asked Questions

What is a One To One Interview?
This is the most common type of Interview Format and enables an interviewer to assess whether the candidate is right for the job vacancy and the applicant a chance to find out about the company and role. Questions usually relate to a candidate’s CV or Job Application and the interviewer will find out more about their key skills, achievements and experiences.

What is a Group Interview?
Group Interviews are usually held when a large number of job seekers have applied for a vacancy or a company has a number of vacancies to fill at one time. All candidates are interviewed together and will likely be asked to do a team exercise as well as answer individual questions. Candidates who perform well in a group interview are often asked to attend a Second Interview (One to One or Panel Interview format).

What is a Panel or Committee Interview?
As the name suggests a panel interview (also called committee interview) will be conducted by more than one interviewer. It can be more daunting than a One to One Interview as it is usually faster paced but remember to stay calm and relaxed. The interviewers will take it in turns to ask questions and will see how you react to their different questions.

What is a Telephone Interview?
A Phone Interview is often used at the early stage of an interview process by prospective employers to form an initial impression of a candidate. After speaking to the candidate over the telephone they then decide whether or not to invite them for a Face to Face Interview. The most important thing to remember in phone interviewing is that you must treat it like any other One to One Interview.

What can I expect in a Second Interview?
A second interview is more in depth than an initial interview and can take on different formats. It could involve meeting several members of the senior management team (Panel/Committee Interview) or a series of One to One interviews. Alternatively, you could be asked to do a Psychometric Test or deliver a Presentation. It is the last opportunity for a prospective employer to judge whether you have the skills, personality and experience to benefit their company and gives them a greater insight into how best you would fit in the organisation.