So, you went on an interview for that new job and now they’ve called to say they’d like you to come in again for a second one. After the initial euphoria at being asked back passes, anxiety may set in. After all, you already heard what they had to say, and you asked all of the questions you could think of. What’s left to do?
Initial interviews are generally designed to find out if you have the basic experience and skills necessary to do the job and get a sense of your attitude towards work in general. The second interview will go more in-depth, as the hiring manager digs deeper into your personality and background to see whether you would be the best fit. You will most likely be asked to meet with multiple people this time as well – including those who may work with you or under you.
Here are eight tips that can help you stand out from the other call-backs on the list:
- Begin by reviewing your performance during interview number one. Clearly, you did well, or they wouldn’t be asking you back, so think back on the points you made and the points made by the hiring manager. Review your answers to the questions you were asked and consider how you might expand upon them if the same questions come your way again.
- Stick with the dress code you established for yourself the first time around – even if the hiring manager was in jeans and a polo shirt. It is always best to look your best, and dressing nicely shows the manager you value the opportunity to interview for the position.
- Prepare to sell your soft skills, like being a team player, taking the initiative, and going the extra mile for the department and the hospital. The hiring manager has already determined that you have the skills to do the job; now he or she is looking at whether you, among the other candidates asked back for a second interview, are the right person for the job.
- If you didn’t meet your immediate supervisor during the first interview, you will likely spend some time with him or her during this one. This person will have more specific questions about your experience and background and will also be able to fill you in on the details of the job. Prepare to share more detailed aspects of your experience and ask more detailed questions about the job description. If you were given a written job description, make sure you know it backwards and forwards.
- Second interviews often include a few moments with the hiring manager’s boss too. These higher level executives will be less interested in your experience and skills and more interested in gaining a sense of your overall attitude and demeanor. Be professional, courteous, and enthusiastic.
- If the position will require you to supervise others in the department, you may be asked to meet with a few of them as well, and their opinions could weigh heavily in the final hiring decision. Or, you may be asked to meet with a few staff members on your own level. In either case, these folks will be looking at how well you would fit in with them and their co-workers, so show them you can be a team player.
- The second interview might include a tour of the department and/or key areas of the hospital. Greet everyone you meet with a smile and handshake, and show a genuine interest in them and what they are showing you.
- If you decide this is the job for you, make sure everyone you talk to knows it. Show your enthusiasm for joining the team and let them know you are excited about pitching in and working hard to help the department deliver quality care for patients and meet its organizational goals.
