Different Types Of Interviews

So, you’ve found a job that seems like a perfect fit. You hit “apply,” submit your resume and cover letter, and cross your fingers, hoping for a call or email. Then it happens. Your resume is so good that a hiring manager reaches out to schedule an interview.

At this point, you’re one step away from landing the job you want. But there’s just one problem you have no idea what type of interview you’re walking into, which makes it hard to prepare.

No worries! Let’s break down the Different types of interviews so you know exactly what to expect.

Individual Interviews

An individual interview is a one-on-one conversation between you and the hiring manager. It can be formal, informal, or somewhere in between.

What to Expect:

• By the time you get to this interview, the hiring manager likely already sees you as a top candidate based on your resume, references, and pre-screening tests.

• This interview is your chance to make a personal connection, showcase your skills, and ask questions to determine if the job is a good fit for you.

• Typically, individual interviews last at least 30 minutes.

Pro Tip: In my experience, if the conversation goes longer than 30 minutes, it’s a great sign the hiring manager is likely very interested. On the flip side, if it’s cut short, chances are you may not be the top choice.

Group Interviews

A group interview is similar to a panel interview, but it’s usually more informal and focuses on team dynamics rather than just your qualifications.

What to Expect:

• You’ll be interviewed alongside other candidates for the same role.

• Expect a mix of behavioral, problem-solving, and situational questions designed to assess how well you perform under pressure.

• The goal? To see how you interact with potential coworkers and whether you’d be a good cultural fit.

Pro Tip: Confidence is key. Make sure to engage with everyone in the room, not just the person asking the questions.

Panel Interviews

A panel interview is one of the most formal and high-stress types of interviews. Unlike a group interview, where multiple candidates are present, a panel interview involves multiple interviewers questioning you at the same time.

What to Expect:

• You’ll likely be notified in advance if you’re facing a panel interview.

• The panel will consist of hiring managers, supervisors, and other key decision-makers.

• At this stage, you’ve already passed the initial screenings—this interview determines if you align with the company’s policies, procedures, and expectations.

Pro Tip: Keep your answers short and to the point—panel interviews move fast. Also, dress professionally and come well-prepared with practiced responses to common interview questions.

Remote Interviews

A remote interview is any interview conducted virtually instead of in person. These interviews are common for work-from-home positions or as pre-screenings before a final, in-person interview.

What to Expect:

• Formats vary from a phone call to a video call, or even a pre-recorded video interview.

• Most remote interviews are one-on-one, but some can be group interviews.

Pro Tip: If you’re in a Remote Group Interview address each interviewer by name when responding it shows professionalism and engagement.

In Conclusion

No matter what type of interview you have, preparation is everything. Knowing what to expect can give you the confidence you need to make a great impression and land the job.

Want to dive deeper into interview strategies? Click here to get fully prepared for your next interview!

If these interview tips have been helpful to you, please comment below and feel free to share!