If you do well in your initial interview and the company is interested in you, they may need some additional information. This is sometimes approached through a second interview, which may be presented in several ways, or through testing to demonstrate your abilities.
Second Interview
In a large company, the second interview is often conducted by a panel of three to five people. These panel members may hold higher positions on the organizational chart than the person who initially interviewed you, or they might be colleagues at your level or different members of the Human Resources team. When you receive a call to arrange your second interview, be sure to ask who will be on the panel so you can prepare accordingly.
Second interviews typically focus on behavioural interview questions, which are usually different from those asked in the first interview. This format allows the panel to assess how you handle various situations based on your past experiences.
Some managers prefer to structure second interviews differently, offering opportunities for informal interactions, such as lunch with your potential manager or coffee with future teammates. This setting can provide insight into the company culture and help you gauge how well you would fit into the team.
A Few Guidelines for Eating While Interviewing
If you’re invited to lunch for an interview, it’s important to handle the situation with good etiquette. While your host is typically expected to pay, it can still feel awkward, so be sure to have enough money on hand to cover your own meal if necessary.
Table Manners
- Napkin: Place your napkin on your lap as soon as you sit down.
- Cutlery: Know which utensils to use and remember to put them down between bites.
- Eating Etiquette: Chew with your mouth closed, avoid talking with your mouth full, and refrain from slurping.
Price Limit
Your host should indicate a price limit for the meal, such as, “Please order anything under R150 so I can claim it on my expenses,” or, “This meal is my treat, so feel free to order whatever you like.” If they don’t provide this information, it’s perfectly acceptable to ask or to choose a meal that is similar in price to what they select. Remember, this meal is about the employer, not you, so you don’t need to order the most expensive item.
Meal Choices
Opt for food that is simple and manageable. Avoid dishes that might drip or create a mess, as you don’t want to feel self-conscious about staining your clothes or struggling to eat something difficult.
Engage in Conversation
Use this opportunity to ask questions that demonstrate your interest in the company or the position. You’ll have had time to think of meaningful questions, and they will help keep the conversation flowing throughout the meal. This setting allows you to showcase your professionalism and enthusiasm, making a positive impression on your potential employer.
Guidelines on Alcohol
Avoid consuming alcohol during an interview or business meeting if you will be driving home. Even if your host orders a drink, it’s best to refrain from drinking unless they specifically invite you to join them. In such cases, it’s wise to stick to non-alcoholic beverages, as this ensures you remain professional and focused. Prioritizing safety and professionalism will leave a positive impression on your potential employer.
Pre-Employment Testing
Pre-employment testing is becoming quite popular. It assures employers that a candidate has the basic skills for a job, and that the candidate has the skills that they reported on their resume. For a candidate, testing is an opportunity to demonstrate your abilities, as well as your honesty in your resume.
In order to make testing easier, candidates are encouraged to:
- Review their resumes and portfolios before testing
- Complete practice tests in their area of skill
- Meet with a coach or mentor
- Exercise
