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What are the Best Second Interview Tips?

Florence J. Tipton
Florence J. Tipton

Receiving a telephone call for a second job interview is a hopeful sign of getting hired. Essentially, second interview tips might fall into three categories. First, before the interview, candidates should prepare by researching the company and position. Second, during the second interview, the candidate should ask questions and be prepared to answer questions succinctly. Third, after the interview ends, candidates may want to send thank you letters to each person involved in the interview process.

Generally, a second interview means that the employer has taken a closer look at a person’s skills and experience. During a second round of interviews, the employer wants to narrow the selection of candidates. A potential candidate wants to ensure that he makes a good impression and progresses in the next phase of the hiring process. The goal is to stand out positively from other candidates vying for the same position. Identifying second interview tips for a job interview may ease the candidate’s anxiety during the meeting.

A simple thank you card is a good way to follow up an interview.
A simple thank you card is a good way to follow up an interview.

Doing research on the company and industry may give the candidate more information about the potential employer. A candidate may also want to conduct more research about the job opening, and gather details about company benefits and salary, as well as duties and responsibilities. Normally, it is not a good idea to discuss salary unless the interviewer brings it up. Information about the salary provides the candidate with a representation of what the typical pay for the position is, based on region and size of company.

A second round of interviews is generally intended to further narrow the pool of candidates.
A second round of interviews is generally intended to further narrow the pool of candidates.

Job candidates who receive a second interview may expect to answer similar or the same questions that were asked during the first interview. Most second interview questions have a targeted focus and are more specific to the position. An interviewer may ask the candidate to describe how he or she would react in a certain situation related to the job.

Multiple interviewers are common at second interviews.
Multiple interviewers are common at second interviews.

Another suggestion associated with second interview tips is having prepared questions to ask. Research before the second interview can also trigger questions that the candidate may want to ask. Questions about the company’s mission, culture, and the expectations for an employee who works for the company may provide insight on many policies and expectations. Candidates may want to prepare several questions as a guide. It is possible that the interviewer may answer some of the questions during the discussion. When a candidate is attentive and flexible, the interviewer does not have to repeat an answer.

For a successful second-interview, applicants should research the company thoroughly, be on time, be dressed and groomed professionally and be prepared.
For a successful second-interview, applicants should research the company thoroughly, be on time, be dressed and groomed professionally and be prepared.

Most second interviews will be with more than one person. Candidates might meet with the department manager, a potential coworker, and a member of senior management, for example. Common second interview tips recommend that the candidate provide business cards for each person. After the interview, candidates will want to send thank you letters to each person with whom the candidate interviewed.

Discussion Comments

megschwo

I applied for a recreational therapy position in California. I am from Indiana, so this is a big move for me. I have had a phone interview, video interview, and now they want me to fly out there for an in-person interview-all expenses paid. I am assuming the job is pretty golden, but wanted people's opinions.

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    • A simple thank you card is a good way to follow up an interview.
      By: alexskopje
      A simple thank you card is a good way to follow up an interview.
    • A second round of interviews is generally intended to further narrow the pool of candidates.
      By: nyul
      A second round of interviews is generally intended to further narrow the pool of candidates.
    • Multiple interviewers are common at second interviews.
      By: Jenner
      Multiple interviewers are common at second interviews.
    • For a successful second-interview, applicants should research the company thoroughly, be on time, be dressed and groomed professionally and be prepared.
      By: BRAD
      For a successful second-interview, applicants should research the company thoroughly, be on time, be dressed and groomed professionally and be prepared.