Good news: You’ve been invited back for a second interview. You did well on your first interview and followed up with a well thought-out thank-you letter. You are excited when you’re asked back to meet with the director, vice president and other team members, but you are also nervous. What can you expect?
Do you feel you’ve already covered everything in the first interview? How will this interview be different? How can you prepare for the second round?
You decide to turn to Monster’s Interview Tips message board for job interview advice and post the following message:
“After spending two hours interviewing with HR and the hiring manager, I’ve been invited to a second interview with a different set of people — some senior-level employees and some peers. What can I expect from this interview? I’ve already asked all my questions. What second interview questions should I ask? The office is business casual, and I only have one interview outfit. What do I wear? Can I wear the same suit I wore to the first interview?”
Fortunately, you get some helpful and practical job interview advice from other Monster members. Here are a few of their suggestions:
Typical Second Interview Questions
“Congratulations on the second interview. This means you are considered an excellent candidate for the position. Second interviews vary with each company. Since you’re going to meet with different people, you can expect to be asked some of the same questions, beginning with ‘Tell me about yourself.’”
“They now know you have the skills and will be looking at your personality and cultural fit. Just go in there and sell yourself.”
“The first interview focuses on whether you are right for the company, and the second determines if you are the best candidate for the position. Second interview questions may be more specific to the job and you may also get some ‘What would you do if…’ inquiries.”
Questions You Can Ask in Round 2
“This is a wonderful opportunity to find out about working for this company — the pros and cons. Ask questions like, ‘What is the best thing about working for this company/boss?’ and ‘What qualities does it take to succeed in this position/company?’ Remember, you are interviewing them as much as they are interviewing you.”
“I would go to the interview with five to 10 questions to ask about the company. My best questions come from the information I hear them talking about. I take notes while they are talking so I can remember what to ask.”
What to Wear to a Second Interview
“If you can’t afford another suit, try a different shirt or tie with the same suit.”
“Continue to dress to impress. After all, you are not one of them yet. Even if it means wearing the same outfit, look sharp. It’s important to feel good about yourself.”
Take note of this job interview advice. Since fit is an important factor, you should compare your qualifications with the job description — from the company’s standpoint as well as your own. And don’t forget to research salaries and think about your benefits requirements as well.
Sure, this is a competitive job market, and you will have to sell yourself aggressively. But all this preparation will make you more confident and help you present yourself.
via What to Expect in a Second Interview | Monster.
What to Expect in a Second Interview
