When you are contacted for a second interview, that indicates you’ve moved from a qualified candidate to a top contender. While first interviews assess whether you have the necessary skills and experience to perform the job duties, the second interview tends to go more in-depth, so hiring managers can evaluate your likelihood of success in the role and as an overall employee. Here are five ways to prepare for success in a second interview:
1. Fully Develop Your Pitch
At this point in the hiring process, you’ve demonstrated that you have the essential skills for the role to the hiring manager. Now you have to be ready to make a compelling case that you are the top choice out of the other candidates who share the same qualifications. Fully develop your pitch so you can be ready to concisely explain, in a few sentences, what you can bring to the job that no one else can.
2. Clarify or Expand on Topics from the Previous Interview
Think back on how the first interview went – obviously, the outcome was successful since it led them to bring you back for another round. However, were there any points you didn’t get to make or explanations you didn’t get to flesh out? Before your second interview, brainstorm any topics from the previous interview that you would like to clarify or expand on in order to leave the best impression possible.
3. Narrow Down Specific Examples
Second interviews typically include more in-depth questions since hiring managers are trying to get to know you on a deeper level. They will be expecting detailed explanations in your responses, so narrow down specific examples from your past work history to support your claims. Common questions to prepare past examples to refer to include times in which you worked with a team, overcame a challenge or dealt with conflict.
4. Research Salary Information
There’s a chance you may be asked about your salary expectations in the second interview. Research salary information for the job title, years of experience, geographic location, etc., to determine a common market range so you can have a fact-based discussion.
5. Prepare Questions of Your Own
Your interviewer(s) will likely conclude the interview by asking if you have any questions for them. This is more than a professional courtesy – it is also another opportunity for them to gauge your enthusiasm for the role and further solidify what you would be like as a potential employee. Prepare questions of your own, especially ones related to the job duties or company, to highlight your interest.
Explore Your Job Options
Find opportunities that are right for you by working with an experienced staffing agency like PrideStaff Akron. Our team of recruiters can match you with the jobs that are the best match for employers across industries. Search our database of currently available jobs to get started.
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