What are the differences between 1st interview and 2nd interview?

Question

Went in for an interview for an IT position. Passed their background and drug screening, and got invited for 2nd interview. Obviously, I am in the small pool of applicants they narrowed down.

The 1st interview was with the recruiting coordinator at HR, and seems like the 2nd interview will be with the people from IT dept that I'll be working with if I get the job. Now, if there's anything I need at least at this stage in my life, it's this job.

Anyone can give me any helpful tips on how I should approach this 2nd interview to increase my chance of getting the job? Should I take any different approches than in the 1st interview? I need the job.

Answer 1

You shouldn't change your approach fundamentally for the second interview as it has got you this far!
You're right in saying that the second interview is more of a confirmation of the qualities that were observed in the first. This confirmation is particularly important if there are two or three highly suitable candidates for just one position and there may well be more and different people interviewing you.
You might need more particular knowledge of the IT Dept's function within the specific company and how your previous experience/knowledge will help you get straight into the job without much adjustment.

Make them like you!

Good Luck!

Answer 2

The first interveiw was HR, typical, the second will be with folks closer to the job you are interveiwing with.

Prep yourself by preparing for open ended questions about PSRs (Problem, Solution, Result).
Sit down and write up some situations about your past performance where you describe the problem, the solution you applied and the result that you got. Practice, out loud, telling these stories until they are concise and you feel you can remember them and use them in a natural manner in your interview as questions come up.
Don't be afraid to sell yourself hard, brag about yourself, but be sure everything you say is absolutely true. This is the time to toot your own horn!
Sounds like you're doing great, good luck!!

Answer 3

First interviews are designed to see if you're really the person you appear to be on paper. It gives me a general and overall sense of whether you might be right for my company and that job.

A second interview is designed to probe this in more detail, and often involves your meeting with people more closely associated with the job itself.

For instance, the first interview may be with the head of the department or human resources, while the second interview might be with the person you'll be working for.

As for your approach to the second interview, it should be exactly the same as the first. Be professional and show them why you're right for that job!

Answer 4

they know that you're qualified, now they are making sure that you can adapt to the work environment and are a team player. Don't appear desperate. Maintain a professional but friendly attitude. Smile. Look them in the eye. Sit/stand straight. Do not sit until you are told to do so. Don't yammer away on your cell phone when you wait. Go over potential questions the night before and rehearse your answers. Prepare what you would say in terms of contributing to the compnay, previous work places, your strengths and weaknesses, skills and so on. Speak clearly. Don't chew gum. Don't use prewritten or scripted cliche answers-recruiters spot those from a mile away. Don't say anything negative yourself or your previous job/employer/peers. Try to relax. Know your value and attributes. Be confident, but not cocky! Do not speak of anything too personal. Bring an extra copy of your resume and any other certificates of qualification. Have a pen and notepad available. DRESS APPROPRIATELY.

GOOD LUCK!!!!