Congratulations on making it through the first round of interviews! While the recruitment process varies from one company to another, this typically means the employer is seriously considering you for the role.

Don’t be frustrated at having another hurdle to jump. Rather, focus on the fact that you’ve clearly impressed them to get this far and you’re close to securing the position.

You may be wondering what’s different this time, what to expect, and how to prepare. If you want to increase your chances of sealing the deal, arm yourself with a strategy for success.

What to expect in the second job interview

The first stage is generally used for discussing your experience, testing your basic competencies, and getting a feel as to whether you’d be a good culture fit. The line of questioning is commonly aligned to the job description and your resume.

The second-round interview involves a more in-depth discussion about your ability to perform for the company. They’ll ask about specific skills and experiences that will help you succeed in the role. You might also meet with other members of the organisation, particularly those you’ll be working closely with.

Depending on the employer and the position, you may be required to give a presentation or undergo some exercises. There are also instances where you’re asked to make a report or article according to their guidelines.

What the interviewer might ask you

You may be asked the same questions as the first job interview, so review them and brush up your responses. Additionally, think about other enquiries you might get and practice your replies with a friend.

Here are some questions that may come up:

“What skills and strengths are you bringing to the table?”

Outline specific contributions to your previous clients that you believe can help your potential employer.

“What are your career goals?”

Discuss the type of work you’d like to do and the people you’d want to work with now and in the future.

“What was the most difficult decision you ever made?”

Make sure your response aligns with what you’ve learned about their culture and standards as a company.

“What is it about this position that interests you?”

Tell them about the parts in the job description that you’re excited about and why you want to be part of them.

“Is there anything to revisit from the first interview?”

Before the second interview, list the things that occurred to you after your last conversation and bring them up.

“How did you manage a challenging workplace relationship?”

Give a reflective answer that shows your wish to minimise any conflicts and remain diplomatic throughout.

“What is your greatest weakness?”

Be honest about a negative trait you actually have but follow up with the steps you’re taking to overcome it.

“Do you prefer working alone or with a team?”

It’s best to answer that while you’re comfortable working with data, you also enjoy collaborating with others.

“What was your most recent job like?”

As objectively as possible, provide a concise summary of your responsibilities at your most recent position.

“Can you describe a typical day at work at your last job?”

Showcase your ability to improvise, adapt, and overcome any challenges in your working environment.

“What professional achievement are you proudest of?”

Highlight an accomplishment that shows you can work and deliver results with people outside of your team.

“What kind of working environment do you prefer?”

Consider where they expect you to work and weave your reply around their expectations and your preferences.

“What do you consider an acceptable salary for this role?”

As mentioned in a previous post, study the trends and consider your must-haves when talking about pay.

“What do you think we can do better as a company?”

Talk about areas that you’ve noticed can be improved, be it their website or their social media marketing.

“Why should we choose you?”

Summarise in 1 to 2 sentences why you’d be the most suitable hire out of the other candidates they have.

What else you can do to get ready

Besides practising your answers to potential questions for the second job interview, you’ll also want to:

Tie up loose ends

Maybe the interviewer mentioned a topic but ran out of time during the first interview. Perhaps there was a question you were unable to answer completely. Recall these and prepare to respond more fully during the second interview.

Prepare for the unexpected

Some employers like asking tricky questions such as “What’s the first thing you’d do if you won the lottery?” to test your problem-solving skills and examine your personality. Train yourself to think on your feet and have some success stories ready in case you’re asked for them.

Have your own questions

At some point, the interviewers will ask if you have any enquiries for them. Choose questions that give you a better idea about the role and show the employer that you are genuinely interested. Limit your initial list to 5 as you’ll have more to add during the job interview.

Brush up your skills

Be on the lookout for presentations, case studies, or technical exercises that will test your competencies. If there’s a tool you haven’t used for a while, check if there are any updates to the technology. Know about the latest trends in your particular industry and give them a try too.

Learn everything you can

Take the time to research about the organisation that you’re applying for and the people who will be conducting the interview. Look at the About Us section on their corporate website and refer to LinkedIn for their professional information. Tap into your connections for insider info as well.

Dress for the part

The second-round interview is likely held over video call so it’s important to wear the appropriate attire. Your research will help you determine if you need to wear a suit or a top with a collar is fine. As a best practice, dress as if you’re attending an in-person meeting.

Snack right before

You might be scheduled to talk in the mid-afternoon or in the middle of the night which is a few hours after a main meal. Since you can’t be sure you won’t feel hungry or thirsty then, you might as well snack right before. Make sure to go to the toilet before answering the video call too.

Think you’re ready for a job interview?

Interviews must be taken seriously so get the basics right to boost your chances of success. You don’t want to get as far as the second round only to fail because you dressed inappropriately or asked the wrong questions to the interviewer.

If you think you’re as prepared as you can be, don’t hesitate to apply for a virtual role you’re interested in. Remote Workmate specialises in connecting online professionals like you with reputable clients from around the world. We’ll also help you prepare for the second round of interviewing.