The Ultimate Guide to Best-Known Types of Interview

Landing an interview is a step that all job seekers must go through. Now, the modern job landscape entails different types of interview, each designed to assess different aspects of a candidate’s suitability for a role. Understanding proper interview techniques and tailoring your preparation accordingly can significantly enhance your chances of success. This blog aims to shed light on various types of interviews, and to equip you with the right knowledge and strategies. It should help you confidently approach any interview scenario and ultimately land your dream job.

Traditional Interviews

The traditional interview setup follows an unstructured format which resembles a casual conversation. For instance, a traditional interview is where interviewers typically ask open-ended questions about the candidate’s background, experiences, and interests. While this approach allows for a more personal connection between the interviewer and candidate, it has been criticized for its lack of structure and potential for bias.

Structured interviews stand in stark contrast with traditional, unstructured interviews. In essence, a structured format deploys a more standardized and objective approach. By adhering to a predefined set of job-relevant questions and using standardized rating scales, structured interviews minimize bias and enhance the ability to predict future job performance. 

This comparison table highlights the difference between structured and unstructured interviews. 

If you are going for a traditional interview, here are some interview tips to keep in mind: 

• Thoroughly research the company and the interviewer
• Review the job description carefully, noting key requirements and qualifications
• Prepare concise and impactful responses to common interview questions like “Tell me about yourself” or “Why are you interested in this role?”
• Highlight your most relevant skills and experiences that are in tandem with the position you are applying for
  

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Informational Interviews

Informational interviews are distinct from formal job interviews. To elaborate, they offer a unique opportunity to learn about a company, industry, or specific role from an insider’s perspective. They are less about evaluation and more about gathering information and building your network. Also, these types of interview are often initiated by the job seeker and are conducted in person, over the phone, or virtually.

If you are wondering about how to prepare for an informational interview, here are a few pro tips for you: 

• Know the person you’ll be interviewing and their background
• Come prepared with thoughtful questions about the company culture, career paths, or job responsibilities in the role
• Show that you are genuinely interested in learning from the interviewer’s experience and insights
• Be ready to discuss your own career goals and how they fit within the vision of the company 

Behavioral Interviews

Behavioral interviews delve into your past experience to gauge how you’ve handled various situations. Basically, the underlying principle here is that one’s past behavior is indicative of their future performance. Therefore, during behavioral interviews, you can typically expect to be asked to give examples of how you’ve demonstrated key skills and behaviors in your previous roles.

Here’s how to prepare for a behavioral interview:

• Reflect on specific examples from your work history that demonstrate the desired skills and behaviors outlined in the job description
• Ensure that you structure your responses using the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method to provide clear and concise answers
• Practice delivering your responses in a confident manner
• Be articulate
• Anticipate follow-up questions that may probe deeper into your experiences

Technical Interviews

Technical interviews are common in fields that require specialized knowledge and skills, such as engineering, IT, and computer science. In essence, these types of interview aim to evaluate your technical knowledge, and problem-solving abilities. Also, one of its key objectives is to gauge your understanding of the core concepts of your field.  Hence, interview techniques in this format may include technical challenges/issues specific to your field and your technical problem-solving scenarios. Questions about specific tools and technologies that you will handle in the role you are applying for can be expected. 

Are you curious about how to prepare for a technical interview? Here are some tips: 

• Review technical concepts, skills, and tools relevant to the role
• Ensure that you possess industry-specific knowledge
• Practice solving technical problems and challenges, focusing on both accuracy and efficiency
• Research the company’s technology stack and tools to understand their technical environment
• Be prepared to explain your thought process and approach to problem-solving, as interviewers often value your reasoning skills as much as the final answer

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Modern Interview Formats

The only constant in this world is change. Everything changes with time, and the job landscape is no exception. Job interviews are constantly evolving, with new formats emerging to assess candidates in innovative ways. Understanding these modern types of interview can help you prepare and present yourself effectively. This increases your chances of landing your dream job. So, let’s look at three modern types of interview.

1. Virtual Interviews

Virtual interviews have become the norm, especially with the rise of remote work and globalization. Unlike traditional in-person interviews, virtual interviews utilize video conferencing technology like Zoom, Skype, or Microsoft Teams. It helps transcend geographical boundaries and offers convenience for both candidates and interviewers. However, they demand different interview techniques due to the lack of physical presence and non-verbal cues. In keeping with this, candidates must master the art of communicating effectively through a screen. They must ensure clear audio and video quality, maintain eye contact with the camera, and project professionalism virtually. Additionally, virtual interviews may incorporate online assessments or tests. 

Here are some effective tips for a seamless virtual interview experience

• Conduct a thorough research of the company, the role you’re applying to, and the interviewers you will be speaking to
• Test your internet connection, camera, and microphone beforehand
• Dress professionally and ensure a clean, uncluttered background.
• Practice answering common interview questions in front of a camera.
• Prepare questions to ask the interviewer
• Maintain eye contact by looking directly at the camera
• Show enthusiasm and engagement throughout the interview
• Send a thank-you email after the interview

2. Case Interviews

Case interviews are a specialized type of interview predominantly used by management consulting firms. However, they are also gaining currency in other industries. In essence, these interviews assess a candidate’s problem-solving abilities, analytical skills, and  critical thinking under pressure, simulating real-world business scenarios.

In a case interview, you will typically be presented with a complex business problem or scenario, often related to the company’s industry or clients. You will be expected to analyze the information, ask clarifying questions, develop a framework to address the problem, and propose actionable solutions.

Preparation Tips for Case Interviews:

• Familiarize yourself with different types of case studies (market entry, profitability, growth, etc.)
• Learn and practice using common business frameworks (Porter’s Five Forces, SWOT analysis, etc.)
• Develop your mental math skills to quickly analyze data and perform calculations.
• Practice case interviews with peers, mentors, or case interview coaches
• Focus on structured thinking, clear communication, and logical reasoning
• Be prepared to defend your assumptions and recommendations

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3. Group/Panel Interviews

Group interviews or panel interviews involve multiple interviewers from different departments or levels of seniority assessing a candidate simultaneously. This format offers employers a comprehensive evaluation of a candidate’s qualifications and fit for the role. Panel/group interviews uncovers a candidate’s ability to interact with various personalities, navigate differing opinions, and demonstrate effective teamwork. Successfully navigating panel interviews requires candidates to engage with each panel member, actively listen to their questions and comments, and respond thoughtfully and respectfully.

Here are some strategies for succeeding in group interviews:

• Research the panel members beforehand to understand their roles and perspectives
• Try to respond before others without being impolite or cutting someone off
• Engage with all panel members, making eye contact and addressing each person
• Actively listen to others’ responses and contribute meaningfully to the discussion

Specialized Interview Types

In addition to common interview formats, some specialized types of interview exist. These types of interviews are specifically designed to assess specific skills or traits relevant to certain roles. Two such specialized types of interview are sequential interviews and stress interviews.

1. Sequential Interviews

Sequential interviews, also known as serial interviews, involve multiple interview sessions conducted one after another. This type of interview follows a one-on-one format and may occur within a single day or even stretch into a few months. In sequential interviews, each session often features a different interviewer, each with their own focus and perspective on the candidate’s qualifications.

Success in sequential interviews hinges on several key interview techniques:

• Consistent Enthusiasm: Maintain high energy and engagement throughout all interview sessions
• Consistent Answers: Ensure your responses remain consistent across interviews
• Honesty and Transparency: Avoid fabrications or exaggerations; maintain credibility
• Tailored Responses: Customize your answers to address each interviewer’s specific interests and concerns

2. Stress Interviews

Stress interviews are a unique type of interview designed to assess a candidate’s ability to perform under pressure. In these interviews, the interviewer intentionally creates a stressful environment through challenging or uncomfortable questions, unexpected tasks, or even aggressive behavior.

To excel in stress interviews, consider these interview techniques:

• Research: Thoroughly research the company and role to anticipate potential stressors
• Prepare for the Unexpected: Practice responding to challenging questions and scenarios
• Remain Calm and Composed: Maintain a professional demeanor even under pressure
• Showcase Problem-Solving Skills: Demonstrate your ability to think clearly and make decisions in stressful situations
• Highlight Resilience: Emphasize your ability to adapt and bounce back from setbacks

Trends in Types of Interview

Modern job interviews are adapting to changing workplaces and technological advancements, leading to the emergence of new trends in the interview process.

1. The Rise of Virtual Interviews

Virtual interviews, a prevalent type of interview, have transformed the hiring landscape. This is because of the flexibility and convenience that it offers to both employers and candidates. Utilizing video conferencing platforms, these interviews eliminate geographical barriers, enabling companies to access a wider talent pool. Moreover, virtual interviews streamline the initial screening process, saving time and resources for both parties.

2. Focus on Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

While technical skills remain essential, the emphasis on soft skills and cultural fit has grown significantly in recent years. Therefore, merely looking for technical abilities alone do not guarantee a good hire. Employers these days prioritize candidates with strong communication, adaptability, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. This shift in focus has led to a greater emphasis on behavioral interviews, which assess a candidate’s past experiences to predict future performance. Additionally, some organizations use personality tests or situational assessments to gauge a candidate’s alignment with the company culture.

3. The Importance of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in Interviews

Focusing on diversity, equity, and inclusionary practices are paramount in today’s workplace. Companies increasingly recognize the value of diverse perspectives and experiences in fostering innovation and creativity. Consequently, DEI-focused questions are becoming integral in different types of interview. In essence, DEI-relatedquestions assesses a candidate’s commitment to fostering an inclusive environment and their understanding of DEI principles. Thus, by actively addressing DEI in the interview process, companies strive to create a more equitable and welcoming workplace for all employees.

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In conclusion, each interview style offers unique challenges and opportunities, from traditional to modern formats. By understanding these different approaches, honing relevant interview techniques, and tailoring your preparation, you can confidently showcase your skills and increase your chances of securing your desired role. Remember, thorough research, practice, and adaptability are key to success in any interview scenario. 

Curious to learn more about different types of interviews and learn the craft of acing them? Consider joining Emeritus’ online courses and land your dream job. 

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