Here’s What to Expect in a Job Interview in Today’s Job Market

On Aug 16, 2023

In today’s dynamic professional landscape, a job interview can be a nerve-wracking experience for many job seekers. Understanding what to expect in a job interview can make the process smoother and improve your chances of landing that new job.

What is a job interview like today?

The modern job interview landscape has evolved dramatically, influenced greatly by recent global events. The COVID-19 pandemic, for instance, catalyzed a shift towards remote work, significantly impacting how interviews are conducted.

Previously, in-person interviews were the norm; today, however, the first interaction with a prospective employer might be through a phone or video call. Even as the world adjusts to the “new normal,” these remote interactions remain a fundamental part of the hiring process.

Additionally, today’s interview process is more holistic, with an increased focus on behavioral interview questions, which allow employers to understand not just a candidate’s skills and knowledge, but their attitude, values and how they perform day-to-day tasks in a work setting.

Companies, especially in industries like tech and finance, are investing more resources into human resources departments, ensuring they have well-trained professionals who can spot talent that aligns with the company’s culture and goals.

How do you prepare for a job interview?

When it comes to job interviews, preparation is key. Understanding the hiring process, practicing common interview questions and being ready to showcase your skills and career goals can make the difference between a good interview and a great one.

Here are a few interview tips that can help you get prepared for your job interview:

Do your due diligence

Firstly, understanding the job description and company culture is a good place to start. This entails reviewing the job posting in detail and researching the company.

For instance, if you’re applying for a project manager role, knowing the day-to-day tasks, required skills and common questions related to this position can be beneficial.

Leverage social media

Next, you should use social media platforms and the company’s website to gather more information.

Understanding a company’s mission, values and the work they do can not only help you determine if the company aligns with your professional goals but also equips you with valuable insights that can come in handy during the interview.

LinkedIn plays a key role here. A well-updated LinkedIn profile can make a strong first impression even before the interview begins. It allows recruiters to learn about your work experience, your skills and any endorsements or recommendations you’ve received.

Create a cover letter

Having a compelling cover letter can also set you apart. It’s a chance to share your story, highlight experiences from your last job or even showcase projects or certifications relevant to the job.

Even if you’re a high school student with limited professional experience, sharing stories about team projects or roles where you demonstrated relevant skills can be advantageous.

Practice, practice, practice

One way to get ready is by conducting a mock interview. Practice answering common questions and speaking about your work experience, project management skills and career goals. This can help you feel more confident and comfortable when the real interview comes. After all, practice makes perfect.

Prepare responses for common interview questions like “Tell me about yourself” or “Why do you want to work with us?” Remember, your responses should be authentic and relevant.

For instance, if the question is about why you want the job, speak sincerely about what attracts you to the position and the company. It might be the company culture, the team members you’d be working with or the opportunities the role provides for growth and learning.

By doing your homework and practicing beforehand, you’ll be better equipped to handle the interview and make a lasting impression.

What happens during a job interview?

The interview process can vary by company and position, but it typically involves several stages.

Initially, you might have a phone interview with a recruiter or a human resources professional. This preliminary screening is a chance to review the job description, discuss your qualifications and ask initial questions.

Following the phone interview, you could be invited for an in-person interview or a video call, particularly if remote work is part of the company’s work environment. This interview is usually more in-depth and might involve the hiring manager, potential team members or senior executives.

You’ll be asked a variety of job interview questions, ranging from behavioral — such as “Tell me about a time when you handled a challenging situation at work” — to problem-solving…