The 3 most common types of job interview

Before heading into a job interview, thorough preparation is essential. Beyond practising answers to classic questions like “What are your weaknesses?” or “Why do you want to work here?”, you also need to consider the format of the interview itself. Different interview styles require different strategies, and knowing what to expect can give you a significant advantage.

This guide focuses on three common types of interviews, starting with one-to-one interviews.

One-to-one

One-to-one interviews are commonly used in small to medium-sized businesses, particularly for roles within close-knit teams. These interviews typically involve a conversation with your potential manager or supervisor. They are often shorter, lasting around 30 minutes, but they provide an excellent opportunity to connect directly with the person who may oversee your work.

Key advantages of one-to-one interviews

The simplicity of this format allows you to focus entirely on building rapport with one person. Unlike panel interviews, you don’t need to divide your attention or manage multiple personalities. This setting can feel less intimidating and allows for a more conversational tone.

How to prepare

1. Research the company thoroughly
   • Visit the company’s website to understand their products, services, and values.
   • Check their social media pages for recent announcements or campaigns.
   • Look into the industry trends or challenges they might be facing to demonstrate your commercial awareness.
2. Learn about the role
   • Analyse the job description to identify the key responsibilities and requirements.
   • If possible, visit the company’s office or store (for retail positions) to observe their work environment and operations.
3. Seek insider information
   • Connect with current or former employees via LinkedIn to gain insights into the role or team dynamics.
   • If appropriate, visit the workplace and ask brief, role-focused questions. For example:
     “Can you share what a typical day looks like in this position?”
4. Prepare to build rapport
   • Show genuine enthusiasm for the role and the company.
   • Be ready to ask thoughtful questions about the manager’s leadership style or team goals, such as:
     “What qualities do you think are most important for someone to succeed in this role?”

During the interview

• Maintain a warm and approachable demeanour.
• Listen actively to the manager’s questions and comments, and respond with examples that align with their priorities.
• Pay attention to non-verbal cues, such as body language, to gauge how the conversation is going.

What to avoid

• Don’t rely solely on generic answers. Tailor your responses to the specific needs of the role.
• Avoid dominating the conversation—this is as much about listening as it is about speaking.

Why it matters

A one-to-one interview is your chance to build a strong personal connection. If you can demonstrate your knowledge, skills, and enthusiasm while making a great impression, you’ll leave the manager confident in your ability to integrate seamlessly into their team.

Panel interview

A panel interview involves multiple interviewers assessing you at the same time, typically three people with distinct roles. This format is common in larger organisations and can feel more formal and challenging than a one-to-one interview. However, with the right preparation, you can navigate it confidently and leave a strong impression on the entire panel.

Who’s on the panel?

1. The Direct Supervisor/Manager
   • This is often the person you’ll be reporting to directly. They are likely to focus on your technical skills, role-specific experience, and ability to fit into their team.
2. A Team Member or Assistant Manager
   • This person may represent the team’s perspective. They might assess how well you’ll collaborate with others or handle the day-to-day responsibilities.
3. The HR Manager
   • Typically responsible for broader company-focused questions, the HR manager may cover topics like culture fit, company policies, and logistical details (e.g., hours, salary, benefits).

What to expect in a panel interview

Panel interviews often last between 30–60 minutes. Questions will likely come from all directions, so you’ll need to stay focused and adaptable. In some cases, panel members may remain silent but observe how you respond to others.

This format may also lead to follow-up interviews, especially in larger organisations, so treat this as a critical step in the hiring process.

How to prepare for a panel interview

1. Research each interviewer

• If you know who will be on the panel, look up their profiles on LinkedIn or the company website.
• Familiarise yourself with their roles and how they might interact with the position you’re applying for.
• Use this knowledge to tailor your responses. For example, if you know one panelist is from HR, be ready to discuss company values or policies.

2. Practice answering questions from different angles

• Expect varied questions, from role-specific inquiries to broader ones about your work style or long-term goals.
• Prepare to adapt your answers to address different perspectives. For example:
  • A manager might ask, “How would you handle tight deadlines in this role?”
  • An HR representative might ask, “How do you ensure your values align with our company culture?”

3. Engage with the entire panel

• Maintain eye contact with the person asking the question, but include the rest of the panel in your response by briefly glancing at them.
• Use inclusive language like, “As you all know, this role requires strong collaboration…”

4. Prepare extra copies of your CV

• Bring enough copies of your CV for each panel member and offer them at the start of the interview. Even if they already have a copy, this shows you’re well-prepared and organised.

5. Anticipate tough questions

• Panel interviews are often designed to test how well you think on your feet. Practise answering behavioural questions using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).
• Example: “Tell us about a time you resolved a team conflict.”

6. Plan thoughtful questions for the panel

• Prepare a few questions tailored to the different roles on the panel. For instance:
  • To the manager: “What does success look like in this position?”
  • To the team member: “What’s the team culture like, and how do you collaborate on projects?”
  • To HR: “What development opportunities does the company offer?”

Tips for success during the interview

1. Stay calm and collected
   • Take a moment to think before answering complex questions. A brief pause can help you organise your thoughts.
2. Be attentive and respectful
   • Acknowledge everyone’s presence and treat each panelist with equal respect, regardless of their role.
3. Use confident body language
   • Sit upright, make regular eye contact, and smile when appropriate to convey confidence and approachability.
4. Adapt your tone and content
   • Speak clearly and adjust your tone depending on the nature of the question, from formal for HR to conversational with a team member.

Why Panel interviews matter

Panel interviews allow employers to assess you from multiple perspectives, ensuring you’re a well-rounded fit for the role. By engaging all members of the panel, demonstrating thorough preparation, and showcasing your adaptability, you can turn what might feel like an intimidating experience into an opportunity to shine.

Video interview

Video interviews have become a common first step in the hiring process. Whether conducted on platforms like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or Skype, these interviews save time for both employers and candidates by narrowing the field before in-person interviews. Typically lasting 15–30 minutes, video interviews are often shorter and more focused, but that doesn’t mean they require less preparation. Here’s how to ensure you make the right impression.

Preparing for a video interview

1. Choose the right environment

• Quiet space: Find a room where you won’t be disturbed. Inform family or housemates about your interview to avoid interruptions.
• Professional background: Select a neutral, clutter-free background, such as a plain wall or a tidy bookshelf. Most video platforms also allow you to use virtual backgrounds—choose a professional option if your surroundings are unsuitable. Avoid anything distracting, such as personal posters or flashy décor.
• Good lighting: Ensure the room is well-lit, with natural light or a lamp positioned in front of you to illuminate your face. Avoid sitting with a window or bright light behind you, as this can create shadows.

2. Test your technology

• Check your device: Use a laptop or desktop with a stable camera setup for a professional appearance. Mobile phones should only be a backup if no other device is available.
• Stable internet connection: Ensure you have a strong, reliable internet connection. Consider using a wired connection for better stability if possible.
• Audio and video quality: Test your microphone and camera in advance. If the audio quality is poor, invest in a desk microphone or use headphones with a built-in mic for better sound clarity.
• Platform familiarity: Familiarise yourself with the video platform the interviewer is using. Download the app if needed and practise joining a test meeting.

3. Dress the part

• Treat a video interview as you would an in-person meeting. Wear professional attire, including a suit or formal outfit, depending on the role. Avoid wearing patterns or bright colours that might appear distracting on camera.

During the interview

1. Set the right tone

• Maintain eye contact: Look at the camera rather than your screen to simulate eye contact with the interviewer.
• Body language: Sit up straight, smile when appropriate, and use natural hand gestures to convey enthusiasm.

2. Minimise distractions

• Turn off notifications on your devices to avoid interruptions. Close unnecessary tabs or applications on your computer to prevent accidental pop-ups.

3. Engage fully

• Active listening: Nod occasionally to show engagement, and don’t interrupt the interviewer. Let them finish speaking before you respond.
• Confident communication: Speak clearly and avoid mumbling. If there’s a delay due to a connection issue, stay calm and wait a moment before responding.

4. Have notes and materials ready

• Keep a copy of your CV, the job description, and a few key points you want to highlight in the interview within reach. However, avoid reading from your notes directly—refer to them subtly if needed.

After the interview

Follow up professionally

• Send a thank-you email within 24 hours, expressing gratitude for the opportunity and reinforcing your enthusiasm for the role. Mention a specific topic discussed during the interview to personalise your message.

Why video interviews matter

Video interviews are often your first chance to make an impression. By treating them with the same seriousness and preparation as an in-person meeting, you demonstrate professionalism, adaptability, and respect for the employer’s time. With the right setup, preparation, and attitude, you can confidently navigate this increasingly popular interview format.