When applying for jobs as a graduate, you are likely to encounter several different types of interviews. An employer will select an interview format that will allow them to assess your suitability most efficiently. Other factors, such as geographical location and distance, may also be relevant to the selected format. This is why it is very beneficial for you to have a comprehensive understanding of the different types of job interviews so that you can be prepared for what you will encounter. This article will outline the different types of interviews and what they involve. 

How to know what type of interview you will encounter?

Typically, unless otherwise specified, it is safe to assume that you will undergo a traditional face-to-face and one-on-one interview. However, if you are uncertain, it is best to contact the employer and double check to ensure that you prepare for the correct type. 

What are the different types of interviews?

Here are the most common types of interviews you may encounter while interviewing for a graduate position:

One-on-one interview

A one-on-one interview is the most common type of interview that you are likely to experience while interviewing as a graduate. This type of interview involves a single representative of the place of employment, usually a supervisor, manager or HR representative, asking standard interview questions to a graduate. This type of interview involves asking questions that allow the employer to assess your experience, skills, and qualifications. A one-on-one interview typically occurs at the company in question. When attending a one-on-one interview, you should provide direct answers to the questions you are asked, making sure to supply examples that provide evidence of your skills. Excellent responses to interview questions are developed using the STAR method. Read our informative article about using the STAR method here. 

You should also maintain a polite and professional attitude, ensuring that your body language is positive and approachable. This may be harder to accomplish if the interview is conducted online, however, you can achieve the same effect by using active listening techniques, monitoring your facial expressions and maintaining eye contact during the interview. 

A one-on-one interview can also occur over the phone or over teleconferencing. This is often used for convenience's sake, especially if the candidate is interstate. You should attend the interview from a quiet space so that there are no distractions or background noise. While it is unnecessary for a phone interview, you should be dressed professionally for a teleconferencing interview. Ensure that the audio and video features are working beforehand so that you are ready for the interview. 

Peer Interview

A peer interview is similar to a one-on-one interview, however it differs in that the interview is conducted by a potential future co-worker. This type of interview is beneficial for an employer to use if they are invested in their employees contributing to a positive workplace culture. This is particularly relevant if the position involves working collaboratively and regularly engaging in team working. While a peer interview must still be conducted professionally, it may be more relaxed as the interviewer is in a similar position as you. Furthermore, asking questions in interviews is recommended. It is particularly beneficial during a peer interview as you can ask questions that can provide you with valuable insight into what it is like working for the company and in the position. 

Panel Interview

A panel interview involves a single candidate being interviewed by several interviewers. The interviewers will typically involve representatives from different departments, including a human resources representative and the supervisor under which the graduate will be working, to ensure that different perspectives on a particular candidate are considered before a decision is made about who is the most suitable for the job. When attending a panel interview, it is crucial that you interact with each one of the interviewers. This includes learning their name, making eye contact, smiling and shaking their hands. It is important to avoid fixating your attention on only one or some of the interviewers. In this way, a panel interview can be more difficult than a one-on-one interview as you are required to impress more than one interviewer. Panel interviews are also more fast paced, as there are several interviewers asking questions and follow-up questions. 

Group Interview

A group interview is the inverse of a panel interview. Insead of multiple interviewers interviewing one candidate, a group interview involves a single interviewer or multiple interviewers interviewing multiple candidates at once. This particular type of interview is used by employers when there are a large number of candidates to consider and choose from. After attending a group interview, you may progress to a one-on-one interview. When attending a group interview, you should take the time to introduce yourself to the other candidates. You should also attempt to interact with them. This is because a group interview is often used by employers to assess your interpersonal and communication skills. 

Informational Interview

An informational interview is conducted in an informal setting. This can include a cafe or a restaurant. This type of interview may be conducted by a single interviewer or multiple interviewers. While this type of interview is by design informal, it is important to still remain professional. This means refraining from speaking offensively, telling jokes, drinking alcohol, or asking personal questions. You should also allow the interviewer to dictate the tone of the conversation. Follow their lead. A good idea is also to bring physical copies of your resume as the interviewer may not have them readily on hand. Physical copies can allow the interviewer to make reference to them and for you to direct them towards the most relevant information that demonstrates your suitability.

Assessment Centre

An assessment centre interview is when an employer interviews multiple candidates at an assessment centre. The interview process typically involves several activities, including an interview, group activities, and other forms of testing. While participating in this type of interview, you should aim to work through each task carefully to demonstrate that you possess the necessary skills to succeed in the role. It is also beneficial to showcase your interpersonal skills and ability to communicate through your interactions with the other candidates and the interviewers.