A personal interview is a two-way conversation where a job applicant and a potential employer learn more about each other. This meeting allows each party to assess if the role, company, and candidate are a good match. The interview provides a depth of interaction that cannot be achieved through resumes or initial screenings alone. It is an opportunity to make a personal connection and go beyond written qualifications.
What is a Personal Interview
A personal interview is a live meeting, conducted either in person or through a video call, between a job candidate and representatives of an organization. This format is defined by its direct, real-time interaction, setting it apart from passive stages of the application process like resume reviews. During this conversation, the employer’s goal is to evaluate a candidate’s qualifications, experience, and personality.
The core of the interview is the human element it introduces. While a resume provides a factual summary, the interview reveals how a person communicates, solves problems, and interacts with others. It allows interviewers to observe non-verbal cues and gauge enthusiasm, providing a more holistic view of the applicant to predict their performance and team fit.
The Purpose of a Personal Interview
From the employer’s viewpoint, the interview is a tool for looking past the resume to assess a candidate’s suitability. Recruiters aim to understand how a candidate’s skills and experience translate into real-world capabilities. They evaluate personality and cultural fit to see if the individual will integrate well with the existing team and company values. This stage confirms the qualifications listed on paper and discovers the candidate’s potential contributions.
For the job seeker, the interview is an equally important evaluation process. It offers a chance to gain a deeper understanding of the job responsibilities, the work environment, and the company culture. Candidates can ask specific questions about team dynamics and opportunities for growth, which helps them determine if the organization aligns with their career goals.
Common Personal Interview Formats
- One-on-One Interview: A traditional format involving a single candidate and one interviewer, who is often the hiring manager or a human resources representative. This setup allows for a focused and in-depth conversation and helps in building rapport.
- Panel Interview: A candidate meets with two or more interviewers simultaneously. This format is efficient for the employer, as it allows various stakeholders, such as department heads and team members, to evaluate the candidate at the same time and from different perspectives.
- Sequential Interview: This consists of a series of interviews with different people within the organization, often scheduled back-to-back on the same day. Each meeting may have a different focus, from general qualifications to technical skills or team fit.
- Behavioral Interview: Based on the premise that past behavior is a good predictor of future performance, interviewers ask candidates to provide specific examples of how they have handled work-related situations. This format often uses the STAR method to structure responses (Situation, Task, Action, and Result).
How to Prepare for a Personal Interview
Thorough preparation begins with in-depth research. Investigate the company’s website, recent press releases, and social media to understand its mission, products, and recent accomplishments. Look into the professional backgrounds of your interviewers on platforms like LinkedIn. This knowledge allows you to tailor your answers and questions to the company’s specific context.
Next, you should anticipate and practice answering common interview questions. This includes preparing a concise summary for the “tell me about yourself” prompt and developing specific examples of your accomplishments. It is just as important to prepare thoughtful questions to ask the employer that demonstrate your insight into the role.
Your professional appearance is another element of preparation. Plan your attire in advance, ensuring it aligns with the company’s culture. For video interviews, ensure your background is tidy and free from distractions. Finally, organize all necessary documents, such as copies of your resume, a portfolio if applicable, and a notepad for taking notes.
A Successful Interview Performance
During the interview, your ability to listen actively is as important as your ability to speak. Pay close attention to the questions being asked, and do not hesitate to ask for clarification if needed. When you respond, your communication should be clear, confident, and concise, using specific examples from your past experiences to illustrate your skills.
Maintaining positive body language is another component of your performance. Sit upright, make consistent eye contact with the interviewers, and avoid fidgeting. These non-verbal cues project confidence and engagement. Expressing genuine enthusiasm for the position and the company can also leave a lasting positive impression.
Concluding the interview professionally is the final step. Thank the interviewers for their time and consideration, and briefly reiterate your interest in the role. A firm handshake and a sincere smile can reinforce the positive impression you have worked to create.