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WHAT TO EXPECT: INTERVIEW STYLES AND FORMATS

There are a number of styles and formats that you may encounter during an interview. Companies select the format used to interview potential candidates dependent upon factors such as job type, experience level and company expectations. It is best to be prepared for any of the styles or formats. 
 

Interview Styles

  • Situational or Performance Interview
    Candidate is given a scenario and asked how he or she would handle it 
  • Behavioral Interview
    Candidate is asked for examples of past behavior to help the employer predict future performance. This is one of the most common interview styles.
  • Technical Interview 
    Candidate is asked about technical or job-specific skills
  • Case Study Interview
    Candidate is introduced to a business dilemma facing a particular company and is then asked to analyze the situation, identify key business issues, and discuss how he or she would address the problems involved. Case interviews are most common for MBA graduates seeking work in consulting or financial firms. Such interviews require significant preparation.
  • Presentation Interview​
    Candidate is asked to present to an individual or group. Presentation topic is either provided by the company or may be of candidate's choice. 

Interview Format

  • ​Screening Interview
    Candidate is asked basic questions about his or her qualifications to help the employer determine if the candidate qualifies for an in-person or more in-depth interview 
  • Telephone Interview
    Candidate is interviewed by phone; most often used for screening interviews 
  • Video/Skype Interview​
    Candidate is interviewed by video conference via online streaming (i.e. Skype). This format is most often used when there is limited budget for travel or the position is located internationally. 
  • One-on​ Interview
    Candidate is interviewed by one company representative 
  • Serial​ Interview
    Candidate goes from one interviewer to another having individual interviews with each 
  • Panel Interview
    Candidate interviews with a group of interviewers in a committee or panel setting 
  • Group Interview
    Candidate is joined by other candidates in a group setting and each answers questions in front of the others 

Questions? Contact Career Development Services at careers@lssc.edu or 352-323-3603.