Introduction
A conversational interview is a great way to get to know a potential employer and see if you’re a good fit for the company. But how do you prepare for a conversational interview, and what should you do during the actual interview?
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Here are some tips on how to ace a conversational interview:
Research the company thoroughly before the interview so that you can ask thoughtful questions about the business.
Prepare for common interview questions, but also be ready to ask your own questions about the company.
Make a good first impression by being friendly and engaging with the interviewer.
Listen carefully during the conversation and ask follow-up questions to show that you’re interested in what they’re saying.
Be honest and share relevant information about your qualifications and experience.
After the interview, send a thank-you note to the interviewer and stay in touch with them.
The importance of a conversational interview.
What is a conversational interview
A conversational interview is an interview in which the interviewer uses mostly or only questions that are open-ended, instead of closed-ended questions. The goal of this type of interview is to encourage the interviewee to talk freely and openly about themselves, their experiences, and their qualifications.The benefits of a conversational interview
There are several benefits of conducting a conversational interview. First, it allows the interviewer to get to know the candidate on a personal level and learn more about their motivations and qualifications. Second, it helps build rapport between the interviewer and candidate, which can make the interview process more enjoyable for both parties. Finally, it can help the interviewer assess the candidate’s communication skills and ability to think on their feet.
How to prepare for a conversational interview.
Research the company
When preparing for a conversational interview, it is important to first research the company. This will give you a better understanding of the company’s culture, values, and goals. Additionally, researching the company will help you prepare questions to ask the interviewer about the company and the position.Review common interview questions
In addition to researching the company, you should also review common interview questions. This will help you anticipate what questions the interviewer may ask and allow you to practice your responses. Additionally, reviewing common interview questions will give you an opportunity to identify any areas where you may need more preparation.Prepare thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer
Asking thoughtful questions during a conversational interview is a great way to demonstrate your interest in the company and the position. When preparing for your interview, take some time to brainstorm questions that will show off your research skills and highlight your qualifications.
How to conduct yourself during a conversational interview.
Make a good first impression
It’s important to make a good first impression when you meet your interviewer. Smile, make eye contact, and shake their hand firmly. Be sure to introduce yourself and thank them for taking the time to meet with you.Listen carefully and ask follow-up questions
In a conversational interview, it’s important to listen carefully to what the interviewer is saying. They will likely ask you open-ended questions, so be prepared to ask follow-up questions to show that you’re interested in the conversation.Share relevant information about your qualifications
When it’s your turn to talk, be sure to share relevant information about your qualifications and experience. If you have any examples of times when you’ve excelled in customer service or sales, be sure to mention them!
How to follow up after a conversational interview.
Send a thank-you note
The best way to show your appreciation for the interviewer’s time is to send a thank-you note promptly after the interview. A handwritten note is always appreciated, but if you want to make sure your note gets delivered quickly, an email is fine too. In your note, mention one or two things that you discussed during the interview that made you excited about the company or the position. This will help jog the interviewer’s memory and keep you top of mind as they move forward in the hiring process.Keep in touch with the interviewer
If you’re still interested in the position after your interview, don’t be afraid to reach out to the interviewer and express your continued interest. You can do this by sending periodic emails updating them on your job search status or connecting with them on LinkedIn. If you happen to hear about an article or event that would be of interest to them, send it along—staying connected shows that you’re still invested in their company even if you’re not currently employed there.Stay positive and optimistic
Even if you don’t end up getting the job, it’s important to stay positive and optimistic throughout the process. The people who interviewed you are likely to be part of a large professional network, and maintaining a good relationship with them could pay off down the road. Plus, staying positive will keep your energy up and help you better sell yourself in future interviews—win-win!
Conclusion
A conversational interview can be a great way to stand out from the competition and land the job you want. By preparing ahead of time, conducting yourself professionally during the interview, and following up afterwards, you can make a lasting impression on the interviewer and improve your chances of getting hired.
