A selection interview is the interview in which you typically meet with a hiring manager or the person who is likely to be your boss. The hiring manager often has the most influence over the hiring process, so this is a very important interview. You're really being assessed during the selection interview; therefore, it's very important that you make a connection. Remember to know your value, really listen to what they want, and be honest, not fearful. Focus on the job scope and responsibility, not only on the money.
In the group interview, you're being interviewed by a number of employees for the hiring company, including your potential boss, the people that would potentially work as your peers, and possibly some of your future reports. This can be an exhausting interview process, simply because you're dealing with so many different people. It's very important that in this type of interview, you don't play to one particular person in the room -- be it the easiest person to talk with or the most powerful person. You are being evaluated, at least in part, on your ability to interact with different personality types. Stay calm, be focused and finish your thoughts.
Stress interviews can be ... well, stressful. You will never know in advance of an interview that you're walking into a stress interview. The point of this kind of interview is to see how you conduct yourself under pressure. Take solace in the fact that this is only a test, and stay composed! Remember that the interview is nothing personal, and the interviewer is asking you rapid-fire questions in succession because it is his or her job. Remain unflappable and calm under pressure -- that's the goal.
Next time, we'll look at practicing ways to tell your story in an interview.
About Sunny Bates
Executive search, career and networking expert Sunny Bates is the CEO of retained executive search firm Sunny Bates Associates. Sunny is the author of "How to Earn What You're Worth," published by McGraw-Hill in February of 200
