What to Expect in a One To One Interview

When the word ‘interview’ is mentioned the first thing that springs to mind is most probably the one to one interview format. Everyone is familiar with this process where a job seeker and employer have a two way conversation to determine whether there is a good fit between the candidate’s skills and experiences and the company and role. A One to One format is either used in a second interview, as a first interview or as the next stage after a Group Interview.

The interview begins as soon as you and the prospective employer meet for the first time so remember first impressions count. The interviewer starts to form opinions immediately so make sure you are smartly dressed and have a firm handshake. Once you are settled in the interview room the interviewer will ask a few questions to make you feel relaxed such as “How was the traffic?”, “Was the Office easy to find?” or “Have you traveled far today?”

The interview will then begin in earnest and the conversation is usually based on the content of your CV and your skills, achievements and experiences. The interview may ask “Tell me a bit about yourself and your work experience" Try to give as much relevant information as possible without rambling. Give a brief synopsis of who you are and the types of roles you have worked in. Try to maintain eye contact and remain as relaxed as possible.

Be prepared to talk about your achievements, skills and employment history and have examples to back up your claims e.g. “I work very well in a team which I proved when…” or “I thrive really well under pressure. In my last job there was an instance when…..” If you have prepared properly for the interview, you should have an example to cover important skills such as teamwork, analytical skills, leadership skills, communication skills, coping with stress etc. The interviewer will ask open questions to allow you to answer in more detail than yes or no. If you do not have any work experience use education, hobbies, pastimes or voluntary work to draw examples from.

The areas where the interviewer will focus on are:

• Work Experience
• Industry Knowledge
• Technical Knowledge
• Education
• Hobbies/Pastimes
• General Knowledge/ Current Affairs

Follow our interview Dos and Don’ts to help you in a One to One Interview and make sure that you prepare thoroughly. Interviewers generally stick to Common Interview Questions so take a look at what you may be asked and practice your answers in a mock interview with friends or family. If you do this you will hopefully be on your way to The Second Interview stage.