Have you aced your first interview?
If you have impressed the interviewer, you are likely to be called back for a second interview. While you may be basking in your success, it is not time to celebrate just yet.
If you are applying for a coveted job, several people may be called back for a second interview. Therefore, it is important to make sure that you really stand out and secure the job on the spot.
So, let’s find out how to ace the second interview and secure your dream job.
Contents
What is a Second Interview?
The second interview provides another opportunity for the hiring manager to view applicants. Second interviews are generally granted when there are several applicants with similar skills and experience. This is the chance for the interviewer to find out if you would be the right fit for the company.
Unfortunately, the second interview does not mean that you have the job in the bag. There is still a lot of work that you need to do if you want to rise to the top of the heap. However, this is your opportunity to show the interviewer that you are the perfect person for the job.
The second interview is usually much more in-depth. It will often include introductions to key members of the company, such as senior managers and supervisors. You may also be introduced to your potential team members to see if you click with them.
The Invitation for a Second Interview
If you are granted a second interview, you will probably be told over the phone. It is important to make sure that the brief conversation presents you in the best possible light. If you stammer and let nerves show during the call, the interviewer may start to question your suitability.
While you are setting up the interview, find out exactly who will be present at the interview. This will help you to discover if it will be a panel or group interview. Make sure you know exactly which position you are interviewing for and what the expectations are.
In some cases, you may receive your invitation by email rather than by phone call. This is the dream situation, as it gives you the chance to structure your response. You will also have a written record of the interview invitation that you can refer back to.
Types of Second Interviews
While your first interview is usually one on one, the second interview can take several different forms. Each of the potential formats requires you to perform in a slightly different way. Let’s take a closer look at the most common second interview formats.
One on One Interviews
In some cases, your second interview may also be with just one person. However, this time around, it may be with someone who is more influential in the company. This could include the Director, a department head, the Vice President, or even the company owner.
Panel Interviews
Sitting in on a panel interview can feel like facing a firing squad as several people sit opposite you. In this type of interview, it is important to get ready to answer a large number of questions. Make sure that you stay calm and confident and maintain eye contact with the panel members as much as possible.
Group Interviews
This type of interview involves a group of candidates all being interviewed at the same time. Some people thrive in group interviews, while other people simply fade into the background. If you are preparing for a group interview, work on a few tactics that will make you stand out.
Questions to Ask During a Second Interview
It is important to remember that the interview is your chance to ask questions. In many cases, whether or not you are given the job can come down to the questions that you ask. Here are some key questions to ask in different types of situations.
Questions To Ask The Hiring Manager
Is there an orientation process for new hires? This shows that you are confident, want to work for the company, and are ready to take the next step.
What are the long-range possibilities with this job? This question shows that you are a dedicated employee with an eye to staying long term and even advancing.
Are there opportunities to develop new skills? This is a good question to ask if you know that the company offers special training programs. You will have the opportunity to express your enthusiasm and your willingness to take part.
Questions To Ask a Manager or Supervisor
How would you describe your management style? This will help you get a feel for how you will be able to work with your new manager or supervisor.
What are the daily responsibilities and duties of the position? Many job descriptions are rather vague. This question allows you to picture your working day more clearly.
What are the company’s expectations for this position? Carefully listen to the expectations and highlight how they match your skills and experience.
Questions To Ask Team Members
What is a typical workday at the company? The team members may be able to offer more insight into what your actual responsibilities would be.
What are the greatest challenges you have faced in the job? If working at the company is particularly tough, this question will help to reveal the issues.
Do you feel that there is potential for professional growth? Some employers promise promotion potential without actually delivering. The team members are more likely to inform you about the chances of getting promoted.
Preparing for The Interview
Sometimes, the second interview can last for several hours or even the whole day. There may be several meetings planned and even special events. When the interview is being scheduled, ask for a rough itinerary.
Do Your Research
If you have not done so already, it is time to find out everything you can about the company. Check out the company’s website and pay particular attention to the About Us section. Do a Google search for additional information, focusing in particular on management and staff.
Review Your Interview Questions and Answers
If your second interview is with someone new, many of the first interview questions may come up again. Review your questions and answers and add extra details where possible. Have extra questions ready to ask the interviewer and take the time to practice before the interview.
Think about What You Did Not Say Before
You may have come out of the first interview kicking yourself for forgetting to say something. Fortunately, the second interview gives you another chance to ask any questions you missed. You also have the chance to expand on your responses to questions from the first interview.
Dress for Success
Unless told otherwise, you should dress in your best interview clothes. This is another chance to make a lasting impression. Even if the usual dress code is fairly casual, you need to put your best foot forward in the interview.
Be Ready for a Lunch or Dinner Interview
If the interview is scheduled to last several hours or all day, lunch or dinner may be included. Breaking bread with potential employees allows employers to see their interpersonal skills. Even if the atmosphere seems light and casual, pay close attention to your table manners and body language.
Tips for Acing The Second Interview
While the first interview focuses mainly on your skills, the second interview is quite different. By this point, the main people in the company are likely to be aware that you have the skills to do the job. The second interview is mainly focused on whether you would be the right fit for the company.
Therefore, the people conducting the second interview focus more on personality and body language. Therefore, interviewers will be paying close attention to how you present yourself and interact with other people at this time. Keeping the following points in mind will help you to ace the second interview and secure the job.
Treat The Interviewers with Respect
It is important to make sure you treat each person you are introduced to with respect. Make eye contact, repeat the names of each person you meet, and shake their hands firmly. Asking for business cards also makes it easier to remember who interviewed you for later reference.
Make Assessments
While employers need to make sure that you are the right fit, you also need to be happy at the company. When you meet your potential employers, assess their mannerisms and body language. While it can take time to warm up to some people, if red flags start popping up, you may want to work elsewhere.
Be Prepared
The interview questions you are asked in the second interview are likely to be quite specific. They are likely to focus on exactly how you would do the job if you are given the opportunity. You may also be asked what you know about the company and what you feel could be improved.
Take Your Time
Allow yourself plenty of time to breathe and consider your answers to interview questions carefully. Interviewers are sure to appreciate it if you take a few seconds to form a clear and concise answer. Practicing answers ahead of time will also help you to perform well on the big day when you feel under pressure.
Be Honest
It is essential to be honest when answering interview questions. If you lied or stretched the truth during the first interview, it is likely to catch up with you. If the interviewer asks for more details on a story you told the first time, you may struggle to keep your story straight.
What To Do After The Interview?
As soon as the interview is over, grab a coffee and go over everything you have seen and heard. This is the time to work out if the job really is what you thought it was and if you are interested. If you have any doubts and there are better options in the pipeline, it is better to follow your instincts.
What To Do if You Get a Job Offer?
In certain cases, you may be offered a job during the second interview. You do not need to say yes straight away unless you are completely sure you want the job. It is better to ask for a little time to think things over and be clear when you will give your answer.
The Thank You Email
After the second interview, it is a good idea to send the interviewer an email thanking them for their time. A polite and well-worded email could be the difference between getting the job and being overlooked. Even if you are not hired for this position, your email will be remembered, and you may be offered another position.
Looking for a High-earning Job?
Then you may want to invest in a specific guide aimed at the industry you’re interested in. I would recommend checking out Art of Commercial Morgage Brokering, 6 Hours to 6 Figures, How to Earn 6-7 Figures Selling Timeshares, and Millionaire Real Estate Flippers.
Or, for more useful suggestions, take a look at Answering Tell Me About Yourself in Interview, as well as how to respond to questions such as Why We Should Hire You or Why Do You Want to Work Here in a way that will set you apart from the rest.
Or, if you’re planning on leaving your current job to pursue your dream of a high-income position, read my feature on How to Write a Resignation Letter. And for additional support and a much-needed touch of light relief through the resignation process, I recommend Work Sucks!: A Funny View of a Serious Problem, How to Quit Your Job Gracefully, or Good Luck Finding Awesome Coworkers Like Us Again.
Back to today’s topic…
Final Thoughts
If you are lucky, you may be told at the end of the second interview that you have the job. However, there may still be several other applicants for the interviewer to meet with. In some cases, the top applicants may be called in for a third interview and maybe even a fourth.
Therefore, it is important to make sure that the interviewer knows you are interested in the job and ready to work. Make sure you leave a good lasting impression on the interviewer. Even if you are not given the job you interviewed for; there may be another suitable position at the company.
The very best of luck with your job hunting.