The most savvy job seekers know that there are plenty of online resources available regarding the job interview process – whether that be articles on interview tips, what to expect in a job interview, what to wear to your first interview and many other topics. I’ve certainly written about the interview process and how to make sure you have a successful first interview several times. It’s a useful topic for job seekers, especially as the corporate workplace continues to evolve.
Ironically, there’s not as much information out there on tips for the interviews that take place after the first interview. Seems odd, right?
Most accounting, finance and information technology professionals vying for new positions will rarely receive a job offer after only one interview. This is because hiring managers need to assess technical qualifications, soft skill attributes and other necessary information before making a decision. Therefore, the subsequent interviews are important and deserve just as much attention as a first interview.
For this reason, I’ve decided to offer some insight into what happens during a second interview since job seekers might not be able access this information as easily. Learn more in the 6 Things to Expect During a Second Job Interview below.
1. Meet the Team
Meeting potential future co-workers and managers is a great opportunity to learn more about the organization’s culture and even a sense of management styles. It’s common to meet with senior executives, managers and co-workers before getting hired – and it’s a critical step in the interview process.
2. Get into the Specifics
The second interview is a great time for a hiring manager to ask specific questions from your resume or cover letter. You should be prepared to explain your previous job duties and responsibilities in greater detail during a second interview. This is your chance to talk about your biggest accomplishments without feeling guilty for bragging!
3. Ask More Questions
Just as hiring managers will be sure to ask job seekers questions, it’s important for job seekers to prepare questions they want to ask the hiring manager. These questions should be different from questions asked during your first interview – and should help shape your overall view of the company. They can be more about the role itself, the organization ins and outs, or questions surrounding the company culture. It’s a good rule of thumb to have around five in-depth questions prepared before going into the interview.
4. Tour the Office
After the question and answer aspect of the interview process is complete, a hiring manager might give you a tour of the office. This is another great opportunity to gain insight into the company culture. For example, is the office sleek and modern or is it older and more traditional? Are the employees talking to each other or is the office more like a library? It’s a good opportunity to picture yourself in the role every day. Be sure to be attentive and show interest during this stage, just as you would in the Q&A part of the interview.
5. Discuss Compensation
While there might still be a few interviews to go before an offer, it’s possible that a hiring manager will want to discuss compensation with you during the second interview. This will allow both of you decide if you should proceed with the interview process and whether you are both on the same page as far as compensation. Be prepared to discuss numbers, as it’s a possible discussion point, even early in the interview process.
6. Seek the Next Steps
At the end of the interview and tour, the hiring manager will likely let you know the next steps in the interview process. If they don’t, you should be prepared to ask what to expect next in terms of communication and additional interviews. It’s always recommended to send a thank-you note to everyone involved in the second interview at this point in the process, as well.
What are some other things that job seekers can expect from a second interview? Comment below and let us know!