The Second Interview

Many trends in campus hiring will change from year to year, however, the basic procedures and protocol for second interviews do not. Even if you have "made the cut," you must remain alert and stay on your toes, because the ratio of finalists to job offers is typically 4:1.

Let's say you made a favorable impression in the initial campus screening interview. The purpose of the first meeting is so the employer can identify individuals for his/her company's list of potential candidates to hire. During this process, the interviewer has identified YOU as having the skills, competencies and capabilities they are seeking in an employee.

So, what are you going to do with this opportunity? Always keep in mind that employers are looking for people who will fit into their organization and represent them well. Here are some things to keep in mind to prepare you for the second interview:

• Be prepared for a long day. Odds are that during the course of the second interview you will meet and interview with several people including some of the people you may be working with if you are hired.
• Read everything you can about the company. Look at Internet resources, re-read employer literature in Career Services, look at year end reports on the organization. Speak with other employees or alumni who work for the company. Ask them about their experiences with the company, what is the managerial philosophy, how are decisions made and in what direction is the company headed?
• Know your resume completely and have extra copies ready for those you meet.
• If you are traveling to the organization's headquarters, ask about travel arrangements and reimbursement procedures.
• Dress appropriately -- err to the conservative side. Convince them that you will fit into their organization.
• Get a good night's sleep before the interview day. Be enthusiastic during your visit, even though you may be asked the same questions over and over by different people. And be consistent, because at the end of the day, the interviewers will be comparing notes. Don't try to change answers to fit with what you think each interviewer wants to hear.
• Wait until the hiring authority brings up the subject of salary and benefits, keeping in mind that the entry-level position salaries may be set as standard for all trainees. Inquire about the rate of advancement in pay as this may be a more important factor than the initial salary. Also consider the total benefits package, not just the initial salary offer. For more information about average salaries offered contact Career Services.
• Usually the employer will inform you of when they expect to make a decision. If they do not, ask when you can expect to hear of their decision. If you are offered a job on the spot, request extra time to consider your options. Employers will understand that graduating seniors may be interviewing with more than one organization and need time to make an informed decision.
• Be sure to follow up by sending thank you notes to each person that you spoke with during the second interview.

Please send any comments or questions to Career Services Center.