What are the most common types of job interviews and the best strategies for each one? In my coaching practice at Briefcase Coach, my team and I have learned that preparation builds confidence, and confidence leads to success. This article will help you feel prepared and equipped for any job interview by understanding the different types and how to approach each one.

Want to Kill it in an Interview? Adjust Your Technique to Different Types of Job Interviews

While the purpose behind a job interview remains the same—an opportunity for mutual evaluation—the past few decades have introduced new interview formats into the mix.

To help you achieve that, I’ve partnered with Briefcase Coach Career Strategists Lindsay Koons, a talent management expert with experience across diverse industries, and Cathleen Sullivan, a former senior leader with a passion for helping clients tell their career stories. This article combines our expertise to guide you through the different types of interviews and equip you with the strategies you need to succeed.

Here’s a breakdown of the most common interview styles, both old and new, along with quick insights on their purpose, what they mean for you, and how you can prepare.

Job Interview Type #1: Phone Screen

Phone Screen:

Generally the first step, phone screens are usually quick and often conducted by a more junior member of an HR department or recruiting team.

What They Want: The phone screener’s goal is to assess if you have the knowledge, experience, and qualifications for the role. They also want to get a sense of your communication skills and enthusiasm for the position.  

You may be pressed for salary requirements—if you can’t avoid it by saying you’d like to learn more about the role and total compensation before providing information, it’s best to be direct and offer a range (not an exact figure).  

Bottom Line: While it’s important to be friendly, facts are more critical than establishing deep rapport during this first round. Project confidence and articulate your answers clearly and concisely.

Tips:

• Speak from a quiet, distraction-free location.
• Prepare by highlighting areas of your resume that are relevant to the position and the organization.
• Have a glass of water handy to avoid dry mouth.
• Speak with energy and enthusiasm to demonstrate your interest in the role.

Hold the flush! I know it sounds ridiculous, but I’ve had more than one executive candidate multitask their way to a flushed interview (literally). So please, if you’re not in a quiet, private space, maybe save the call for later. Let’s keep your interview flowing—just not like that!

Job Interview Type #2: Meet Up for Coffee Interview

A casual coffee chat has replaced some first-round one-on-ones and serves as a forum for informational interviews.

These chats are a great opportunity to learn about potential job openings, gather information about the company, and even receive advice.

“Don’t let the casual atmosphere of a coffee chat fool you, it’s still a strategic opportunity. Be conversational, but come prepared with insightful questions and examples that demonstrate your value. It’s the perfect space to leave a lasting impression,” advises Briefcase Coach strategist Lindsay Koons.

What They Want: These meetings often occur with recruiters juggling multiple open roles or hiring managers with needs but no official job requisition. They are assessing your general fit for the company culture and your genuine interest in the organization.

Bottom Line: Though it may feel casual, it’s essential to do your homework through research of potential companies and industries.

Keep examples of recent achievements at the ready and prepare your elevator speech, which should include why you’re looking and what value you bring to the table.

Tips:

• Business casual attire is appropriate.
• Bring something to write with, a business card if you have one, and several copies of your resume.
• Follow up with a thank-you email within 24 hours to express your appreciation for their time and reiterate your interest.

Read more: How to Request and Informational Interview

Job Interview Type #3: One-on-One Interviews

The traditional one-on-one interview remains a core component of the hiring process. This format provides an opportunity to build rapport with the interviewer and showcase your qualifications and personality.

Understanding the Interviewer’s Perspective

In a one-on-one setting, the interviewer aims to go beyond your resume and get a sense of who you are as a person. They want to understand how you’ll fit into the company culture and whether you possess the skills and experience to excel in the role.

Making a Strong Impression

To make the most of this interaction:

• Be prepared to tell your story: Practice articulating your career path, highlighting your key accomplishments and skills, and connecting them to the position’s requirements.
• Showcase your personality: Let your enthusiasm and genuine interest in the role shine through.
• Engage in active listening: Pay close attention to the interviewer’s questions, ask clarifying questions, and demonstrate that you value their input.
• Ask thoughtful questions: Prepare insightful questions that demonstrate your research and genuine interest in the company and the role. This is also an opportunity to gather information to help you decide if the position is the right fit for you.

Examples of Questions to Ask:

• “Can you describe the day-to-day responsibilities of this role?”
• “What are the company’s goals for the next year?”
• “What opportunities are there for professional development and growth within the company?”

Beyond the Basics

• Non-verbal communication: Maintain comfortable eye contact, use positive body language, and be mindful of your tone of voice.
• Follow-up: Send a thank-you note within 24 hours to express your gratitude and reiterate your interest in the position.

By approaching one-on-one interviews with confidence and preparation, you can make a lasting impression and increase your chances of success.

Read more: Guide to Answering Common Interview Questions

Interview Type #4: Video/Online Interview

Online Interviews: Mastering the Virtual Stage

Online interviews have quickly become a staple in the hiring process. While they offer convenience, they also present unique challenges. To be successful in this type of interview, you need to project professionalism and build rapport through the screen.

Projecting Confidence from Behind the Screen

“Online interviews demand more than just technical readiness,” says Koons, “they require presence. From lighting to body language, every detail counts in showing you’re prepared, professional, and able to navigate the digital world effortlessly.”

Here’s how to make a positive impression:

• Setting the Stage: Choose a quiet, uncluttered background and ensure your face is well-lit. Avoid backlighting, which can cast you in shadow.
• Eye Contact is Key: Look directly at the camera, not the interviewer’s face on the screen, to create the illusion of eye contact.
• Minimize Distractions: Close unnecessary applications and mute notifications to avoid disruptions.
• Technical Preparedness: Have a backup plan in case of technical difficulties. Keep your phone nearby to switch to a phone call if the video connection fails.

Building Connection in a Virtual Space

While the interviewer’s primary goal is to assess your qualifications and fit, building a human connection is equally important. “Focus on clear communication, active listening, and bringing energy to the conversation,” advises Koons. “Remember, it’s not just about answering questions, it’s about creating a human connection through the screen.”

To achieve this:

• Engage actively: Use nonverbal cues like nodding and smiling to show you’re engaged.
• Project your personality: Let your enthusiasm and personality shine through, even through the screen.
• Practice your virtual presence: Do a test run with a friend or family member to get comfortable with the technology and your on-camera presence.

By mastering these elements, you can confidently navigate the world of online interviews and make a lasting impression.

Read more: Home Office Video Interview Hacks

Interview Type #5: Group Interview

While panel interviews can be intimidating, with multiple interviewers assessing you simultaneously, they offer a valuable opportunity to showcase your communication and interpersonal skills. As Koons emphasizes, “It’s important to engage the entire group. Make sure to address each person with eye contact, share your answers with the whole room, and tailor your responses to their specific roles.” By demonstrating that you’re thoughtful, inclusive, and aware of everyone’s perspective, you’ll make a strong impression and increase your chances of success.

What They Want: This format not only saves time for all parties but also provides insight into how you handle pressure compared to a one-on-one interview. They want to see how you interact with a group and whether you can effectively communicate your ideas to different people.

Bottom Line: Eye contact is crucial in panel interviews. Focus on the person asking the question, but also engage the whole panel when responding or asking your own questions. This shows you’re attentive and confident communicating with multiple people.

Don’t miss the opportunity to ask your own questions at the end, advises Briefcase Coach strategist Cathleen Sullivan. “Thank the interviewer for their time, reiterate your interest in the position, and ask about next steps to proactively advance your chances.”

Tips:

• Address each interviewer and repeat their names during introductions to connect with them individually.
• Ask for each person’s business card for your post-interview thank-you notes.
• Take notes during the interview to help you remember who’s who.
• When answering a question, address the person who asked it directly, while still making eye contact with other panel members.

Different Types of Job Interviews Need Different Preparation

Understanding the purpose of each interview type and having a tailored game plan in place offers you your best shot at interview success. Adapting your approach to the format will help you stand out as a well-prepared candidate, ready to make a lasting impression.

Need Help from the Professionals?

Investing in yourself is the best career move you can make. With Briefcase Coach’s interview coaching, you’ll gain the confidence, skills, and strategies to overcome interview jitters, handle tough questions, and showcase your unique value. Contact us today to learn how we can help you unlock your full potential and achieve your career goals.