Summary

This article examines advice from Michelle Riklan, a New Jersey-based consultant, on things to do to handle effectively five different types of interviews.

Getting Started

Appropriate Subject Area(s):

Careers, business studies, entrepreneurship

Key Questions to Explore:

  • What are the different types of interviews?
  • How do I prepare for them?

Materials Needed:

  • Copies of the article for the students
Study and Discussion Activity

Introduction to lesson and task:

The nature of job interviews has changed dramatically. Different approaches are used by different organizations and if preparation does not fit structure the results could be disastrous for the candidate. Obviously, then, any part of preparation for an interview should include, if possible, an awareness of the type and nature of the interview. Often, however, that is not possible so the candidate should possess knowledge of the challenges presented by the different interview structures and the skills needed to conduct oneself in each type. This lesson will provide the students with an opportunity to examine five different interview structures and to discuss appropriate behaviours in each.

Action (lesson plan and task):

  • Begin the lesson by asking the students to indicate if they have ever been interviewed for a job.
  • Ask those who have to outline the process used in the interview.
  • Indicate to them that there are many types of interview structures and ask the students individually to write down the different types of interviews they can think of.
  • Once this has been done, ask them to identify the challenges for the candidate presented by each of those they have identified and to list some of the things the candidate should or should not do during that particular type of interview.
  • Once this has been done, put the students in pairs and have them exchange and discuss their ideas.

Consolidation of Learning:

  • Once this has been completed, hold a plenary session and list the different types of interview structures identified by the pairs.
  • Review each type and discuss both the challenges presented by this structure and the suggested actions by the candidate.
  • With these activities as background, provide the students with a copy of the article and allow them time to read it.
  • Conduct another plenary session during which the students can offer their reactions to what they have just read and any additional comments they would like to make.
Success and Additional Learning

Success Criteria:

The students can:

  • Identify different types of interview strategies.
  • Explain some tips on things to do during each of the identified strategies.

Confirming Activity:

  • Have the students briefly indicate (either orally or in writing) which interview strategy they would prefer both as an interviewer and a candidate, giving reasons for their choice.