How do I approach my second interview?

We have been asked this question ALOT recently so thought it would be helpful to share this article.

A second interview gives you another chance to show an employer why they should choose you so make sure you're prepared!

1) Preparing for a second interview
You might wonder whether you'll have anything new to say, given that you presented your best bits the first time around. But a second interview gives you the opportunity to shine once more and shouldn't be too daunting especially if you prepare thoroughly.

If you are using a recruiter they can be really helpful and find out the 2nd interview process for you. They may find out if...

• you'll be expected to do any tests or exercises ?
• whether it will it be a competency or strength-based interview ?
• will you be given a tour of the premises and meet the team ?
• what is the dress code - especially useful if the first was on a video call ?
• who will be interviewing you, as second interviews are often conducted by more senior staff ?

TIP - If you have any notes or feedback from the first interview, read them again to remind yourself how it went. Which answers were your best and which were the weakest? Did you forget to mention some key experience or successes that you've had? What areas were not covered at all so might come up next time?

TIP - Another important way to prepare is by refreshing your research about the role and the company, as you'll certainly be expected to have more significant knowledge by this stage of the process. Drive deeper into the companies website, accounts - google the company name again - have they been in the media recently?!

2) Prepare answers to common interview questions.
It's hard to predict what questions will come up in a second interview. Your interviewer may want to cover the same topics as before, but in greater detail, or they may prefer to discuss different issues entirely. For example, if the first interview focused on your existing skills and experiences, the second may centre on how you'd approach specific challenges in the role.

Alternatively, you may be on the cusp of getting the job offer, and the employer simply wants to question you about one or two areas again or show you the lovely offices. As interviewing goes both ways! The company also needs to impress you!

TIP - Refresh your answers to common interview questions. If you were asked them at your first interview, make sure you have additional detail/examples or new things to say in response. The interviewer may quote your first interview back at you and expect you to expand on or explain your answers. Ensure you have evidence to back up any examples you give. 

Meanwhile, any common interview questions that weren't asked last time around will almost certainly come up on this occasion, so have an answer ready. 

3) Your questions to ask in a second interview
Even more so than before, you must have at least two or more of your own questions to ask the interviewer at the end of a second interview. You maybe very close to getting a job offer so the employer will be surprised if you don't have any queries at this stage.

TIP - Try to make your questions more specific to the job this time. This will show that you've continued to do your research in between interviews. For example, you could ask about current projects, what you'd be working on if you get the job or what would my first week look like?

Another option is to ask about the department you'd be joining. You could question the employer about the style of management they use, the team dynamic, or the working culture. 

Finally second interview TOP tips summary
✔️Be positive and remember you've already made a good impression so be CONFIDENT.
✔️Maintain your professionalism and don't assume you've already got the job.
✔️Thank the interviewer for the opportunity to come along again.
✔️Prepare further questions and do more research.
✔️Make your responses and your questions as specific and detailed as possible.
✔️Try to build a rapport with the interviewer throughout the discussion, especially if it's a senior member of staff or your potential line manager.
✔️Be enthusiastic - tell the interviewing you would really LOVE the job - (only if you feel that way of course!) People hire people who want them!
✔️Finally don't forget to smile
✔️and be YOU!


If you would like further interview support please don't hesitate to contact Clare at Vardey Recruitment - 07816 873747 or email us at clare@vardeyrecruitment.com


https://www.prospects.ac.uk/ - reference to support article

June 2023