Being called for a second round interview is an achievement in itself. Below are some good tips to help you succeed in Round 2.
Tip 1: Acknowledge this achievement
Remember to acknowledge what you have achieved in being called back for a second interview. Review what went right in Round 1 and work on where you feel you stumbled in the initial interview.
Tip 2: Conduct more research
Research more into the company, the industry and future trends. Be prepared for a wider range of questions than in Round 1.
Tip 3: Prepare for a new audience
Expect to meet different people, some of whom will not be familiar with your story and the answers you presented in your previous interview. Consequently, don’t fear repetition. It is important to request an agenda and enquire who will be in attendance for your second interview. You may need to tweak you original answers for your new audience based on the make-up of your new interviewing panel. For example, is a CFO is in attendance, you may consider putting more emphasis on measurable, quantifiable results.
Tip 4: Practice your body language for a panel interview
The first interview may have involved just one interviewer. However by Round 2, the likelihood of being interviewed by a panel becomes much higher. Remember to distribute eye contact to everyone in the panel, especially when answering questions. This should help to keep each member of the interviewing team both attentive and engaged.
Tip 5: The Follow Up
Send a thank you card/e-mail to everyone on the interview panel. A follow up thank you card or e-mail thanking each member of the interviewing panel individually is a lovely touch. However it means you collecting all their business cards as the interview commences or by noting their names at the start of the interview. This follow up is extremely important and could easily set you apart from the competition.
Remember that reaching Round 2 of the interview process is an achievement in itself. The chances of you landing the job has dramatically increased to between 25% and 50%, according to industry experts. What follows post Round 2 is usually either Round 3, a psychometric test or a concrete job offer.
Talk to one of our specialist consultants who will offer leading edge advice and connect you with the best employers by discipline, industry or location.
