Secondary and Telephone Interviews
Secondary Interviews
After the initial on-campus interview, you may be invited for a second interview/office visit. This interview may be held at one of the organization's offices or plants in another city.
The purpose of this interview is to allow you to get a more detailed assessment of the employment opportunity, and for the employer to make a more in-depth evaluation of your personal qualities.
The second interview may include:
A company representative to greet and act as your host.
A day full of meaningful activities such as a meeting with key managers or other employees.
An interview luncheon or dinner.
- Remember to use proper etiquette
- Be aware that your behavior is still being scrutinized
- Try to avoid controversial topics
An offer may be made at the end of the trip. If not, a final decision will be made by a later date and you should be contacted by phone, email, or letter.
Be sure to use the second interview as your opportunity to learn in detail what it would be like to work for the company! Ask any questions you may have and get to know your possible future employers!
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Telephone Interviews
Telephone Interviews are a process used to screen applicants before they are brought in for a face-to-face interview.
They are primarily used to verify your basic qualifications and to find out whether you can communicate in a professional, friendly manner.
The main goal of telephone interviews is to convince the interviewer that you're worth bringing into the office.
Telephone Interviewing Tips
- Smile! It will make your voice sound enthusiastic and show that you have interest.
- If your phone interview is planned in advance, be ready to answer your phone at any time.
- If you are using a cell phone, make sure the battery is charged and it has reception.
- Pick a quiet location where you can speak openly without interruptions (ex: a study room in Ames or an office in the Career Center)
- Prepare a "loose" written script or jot down on index cards key points to be made. Make sure to practice so the words come naturally and don't sound scripted.
- Keep your resume, cover letter, and other documents nearby for reference.
The Non-Interviewer
Warning: Not all interviewers are good at interviewing! If the interviewer does not ask questions about your qualifications or skill that are relevant to the job/internship, point them out yourself.
Ex: "If you don't mind, I'd like to share with you some of my experiences that are related to this job...or..."I have a few questions about..."