Student Supplement (DL 125)


There are several types of interviews. Each interview type is designed to determine how well you will (or will not) fit into the advertised role, job culture, or team.

Author Scott Vedder provides common interview types in his book “Signs of a Great Interview.” Learn more here.

Initial Screening Interview
According to Vedder, this type of interview is used to “narrow a wide pool of candidates.” A screener will ask questions related to the posted job requirements to identify top candidates and weed out lesser qualified applicants.

Panel Interview
Panel interviews give the hiring organization multiple opinions to base a hiring decision. Interviewers might be team members who already work together and want to determine the candidate’s overall fit with the team. Another term for a panel interview is a group interview.

Peer Group Interview
A peer group interview is an efficient way for a hiring organization to fill entry-level positions and fill high-volume roles during peak seasons. Typically, a recruiter will ask questions of a group of candidates.

Video Interview
Video interviews are becoming increasingly popular. It’s important to dress professionally and practice using the technology prior to the interview.

Tip: Record yourself answering popular interview questions. What are you doing well? How can you improve? Do you hear yourself repeatedly using filler words like "um," "like," "you know," and "ah"? If so, simply pause, breathe, collect your thoughts, and proceed with an answer.

Hiring Manager Interview
The hiring manager is likely to be your future boss. It’s important to research the hiring manager using LinkedIn, article searches, and the company’s website. Knowing about the hiring manager’s background will help you build rapport with the hiring manager. It also may help slay doubts and fears, allowing you to build confidence as you learn more about your interviewer.
Note: Rapport in this context means a more friendly relationship and thoughtful conversation during the interview.


Informational Interview
An informational interview is the opportunity for you to set up an interview to learn more about an organization, job, or industry. This is your opportunity to gather information with the goal of building relationships. Be sure to target hiring managers and leaders in the organization who have specific experience in the business unit or department that you want to learn more about.

Stress Interview
A stress interview is designed to put you in an awkward position and test your ability to navigate outside of your comfort zone. It is important to understand that operating outside your comfort zone is where the real growth occurs. Don’t be afraid to ask a follow-up question if you think the question requires more clarity before you answer.

Sample “stress” questions from Betterteam.com:

  • Why were you fired from your last job?
  • How many other jobs are you applying for?
  • What would you do if a colleague took credit for your idea or your work?
  • What would you do if a customer verbally insulted you in front of co-workers?
  • Was the stress of your previous job too much for you to handle?



More stress-related interview questions can be found at the Betterteam website.