Second Interviews: What You Need to Know

Been offered a second interview? Well done! But the job’s not yours yet. Once you have reached the second interview stage it can be tempting to think that the hard work has been done and that the job is almost yours. It isn’t.

Preparing for your second interview is just as important as preparing for your first and failure to do so will not see you secure the job. But what can you expect in your second interview? All interviews are unique but most second interviews will share a few features:

Second Interviews Are More In-Depth

You may be asked many similar questions in your second interview to ones that you were asked in your first. However, this time they will be more in-depth and they will expect answers that are more illuminating and comprehensive.

Expect More Open-Ended Questions

Do you know the difference between closed questions and open-ended questions? Closed questions are the sort of questions that only require a yes, no or simple, one sentence answer. Examples could be:

• Do you have a driving license?
• Do you have the right to work in the UK?
• What notice period would you have to serve?

Open-ended questions are questions that require a longer, more in-depth answer.

Examples include:

• Tell me a time when you have dealt with a difficult customer
• Explain how you have contributed to your current company’s expansion
• How would you manage an employee who was continually being disruptive?

As you can see, these require longer, more comprehensive answers that require you to really give evidence based, detailed answers and you will get a lot more of these in a second interview.

They’ll Assess Your ‘Fit’

You may find that in your second interview they may ask you more questions about you and your life, your attitude and opinions.

They may also ask you about hobbies and interests. This is because assessing how you fit into an organisation is just as important as whether you have the right skills and experience. Successful organisations have teams that work well together and they will not want someone to come in who may upset the team ethos and atmosphere.

They’re a Chance For You to Ask Questions

Second interviews aren’t a one-way process, they are the chance for you ask questions and put any concerns you may have to rest.

Often, after a first interview you walk out and think of questions that you wish you’d asked during it. The second interview is the perfect time to ask these and other questions. If you’re stuck for what to ask, check out our article ‘Important Questions You Should Ask During an Interview’.