Good news: You've been invited back for a second interview. You did well on your first interview and followed up with a well thought-out, thank-you letter. You are excited when you're asked back to meet with the director, vice president and marketing team, but you are also nervous. What can you expect?
Do you feel you've already covered everything in the first interview? How will this interview be different? How can you prepare for the second round? You turn to Monster's Interview Tips message board for advice and post the following message:
"After spending two hours interviewing with HR and the marketing manager, I've been invited to a second interview with a different set of people -- some senior-level employees and some peers. What can I expect from this interview? I've already asked all my questions. What new questions should I ask? The office is business casual, and I only have one interview outfit. What do I wear? Can I wear the same suit I wore to the first interview?"
Fortunately, you get some helpful and practical advice from other Monster members. Here are a few of their suggestions:
What to Expect
"Congratulations on the second interview. This means you are considered an excellent candidate for the position. Second interviews vary with each company. Since you're going to meet with different people, you can expect to be asked some of the same questions, beginning with 'Tell me about yourself.'"
"They now know you have the skills and will be looking at your personality and cultural fit. Just go in there and sell yourself."
"The first interview focuses on whether you are right for the company, and the second determines if you are the best candidate for the position. The questions may be more specific to the job and you may also get some 'What would you do if ...' types of questions."
What to Ask
"This is a wonderful opportunity to find out about working for this company -- the pros and cons. Ask questions like, 'What is the best thing about working for this company/boss?' and, 'What qualities does it take to succeed in this position/company?' Remember you are interviewing them as much as they are interviewing you."
"I would go to the interview with 5-10 questions to ask about the company. My best questions come from the information I hear them talking about. I take notes while they are talking so I can remember what to ask."
What to Wear
"If you can't afford another suit, try a different shirt or tie with the same suit."
"Continue to dress to impress. After all, you are not one of them yet. Even if it means wearing the same outfit, look sharp. It's important to feel good about yourself."
You take note of the advice. Since fit seems to be an important factor, you should compare your qualifications with the job description -- from the company's standpoint as well as your own. Do some research on salary and some thinking about your benefits requirements as well.
Sure, this is a competitive job market, and you will have to sell yourself aggressively. But all this preparation will certainly make you more confident.
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