Let’s say that your resume has won you the next step of the application process, what now? Companies would have various ways of how to go about their hiring. Some companies would just require an interview after shortlisting candidates based on resumes. A growing number subject their applicants to tests (written, practical, and even oral) and technical interviews. Still, no matter what other steps companies have their applicants go through, the job interview is one of the inevitable steps before they hire a candidate.
The typical job interview has four parts:
Ice breaker – This usually involves the introductions and exchange of pleasantries. Interviewer would be dwelling on trivial things like the trip or the weather. Savvy interviewers use this opportunity to place the interviewee at ease.
Q and A - The real meat of the interview. This is where the interviewer fires off a barrage of questions to the interviewee and the interviewee answers. Questions range from general character questions, to work and skill-related questions, to experiences, and even challenging questions designed to catch the interviewee off-guard. More on this is discussed on the common interview questions.
Interviewee’s Questions - The role reversal. This is the part where the interviewer will ask the interviewee, “Do you have any questions?” A part that is typically misused by many applicants by remarking that they have no questions. It’s an opportunity for the applicant to know more about the company and confirm and clarify things about the position.
Closing - This is simply a wrap-up for the interview. Some interviewers readily debrief the applicant and even offer advice. At times, the interviewer discusses what to expect next. Again, exchange of pleasantries are exchanged. For some lucky applicants, this part can even be a discussion on the offer.
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