Not all employers require second interviews, but many still do. They often use the first interview to check you’re qualified for the role and that there aren’t any obvious problems with you or your application. The second interview is to see more of you as a person, and how you would fit into the organisation.
Some use the first interview as a clearing house for higher managers. If you make it through to the second round, you often get to meet owners, directors or more important personalities within the organisation. Now is your chance to really impress.
If the company doesn’t tell you, ask them if you will be meeting the same people or someone different. This shows that you like to be prepared and allows you to think of new answers to questions. If you’re seeing the same people, you don’t want to talk about the same things as last time. Whereas, someone different will ask certain questions again.
During a second interview you won’t have to sell your abilities or qualifications as much as the first time. If they weren’t happy with you, you wouldn’t be there. Relax a little bit and be prepared to talk about you as a person and your “soft skills.”
Soft skills are all about how you work with other people, leadership qualities, working in teams and so on. These are all important aspects of the interview process as no employer wants to hire someone who is going to disrupt the status quo.
The second interview is also your chance to find out more about them company. If you read our article on handling interview questions, we suggested a couple to ask the employer. If you didn’t ask them at the first interview, now would be a good time.
Then try asking some more questions about the direction the company is going in and its history. Your interest will be appreciated and will show a long-term view. In addition, as you learn more about the company’s goals, you can highlight how your skills mesh with the culture of the organisation. Keep it a light sell though, a simple mention should suffice.
Often the most difficult part of a second interview is the discussion about the package. If this comes up and it isn’t part of a fixed salary offering you’re going to have to negotiate. This is where preparation comes in. Research what other roles in your area are paying, and opt for something similar.
Handle the second interview much like the first. Relax, watch your body language and how you answer questions. Keep the sell subtle and show your personality. That’s what they will be looking for.
