This is the most common type of interview, and consists of simply one interviewer talking to one applicant. As it is easy to arrange to conduct, consequently, it is the most popular format. It is common for organizations to hold a series of one-to-one interviews, which may be on the same day or over a few weeks.
 

The panel, or the selection board, may number from two members upwards. It can take many different forms, from a free for all, where all interviewers chip in with a variety of questions, to a more formal and structured approach where interviewers will take it in turn to ask questions reflecting their particular interests. At first,, this style of interview may feel more threatening, but tends to be fairer and more equitable. Panel interviews are preferred in an equal opportunities framework.

Panel interviews can be very formal. Responses and further exploratory questions are not always forthcoming because of the limitations of time. It is also more difficult to establish the same feeling of rapport as you can in a one-to-one interview.

The chair of the panel is usually the one who makes the initial introductions and the final remarks. Do not assume that they have the greatest influence in making final decisions.

But well, who should I address? When you answer the questions, always look at the person questioning you. Direct your answer to the questioner and glance around to show that you are ready for the next question.

Do not be unnerved by the panel; treat it as if it is a one-to- one interview concentrating your attention on the questioner at all times. Only include the other members when you are ready to continue with the next question. Do not be put off by signals between members of the panel. These probably have little to do with you personally but are more to do with matters such as time and questions.
 

From the old days, test have been the most commonly tool used to assess candidates' abilities, aptitudes and performances. In tests for choosing employees, they are not examinations of your ability to remember facts, but an extra way of gathering information. All applicants will be given the same questions, tasks and parameters. In an assessment centre format these are carried out in groups.

If you know there will be some form of test, remember to answer it honestly. If you attempt to paint a picture of yourself as the type of person you think they want, you will have to keep up the pretence or fail later on. Also, many of the tests are sophisticated enough to detect deception.
 

It is increasingly common for interviews to include a formal presentation as part of the process. You Jmay get advanced warning of this and the particular subject area you are required to present. Be sure to check what equipment will be available to you on the day: overhead projector, slide projector, flipchart, etc. and who will constitute your audience. You may want to make copies of your presentation or a summary to hand out.

In many cases you receive the subject on arrival at the interview and have to prepare there and then. Think through an outline of a presentation -how and in what ways you would address the issues of the day. Then all that you need to do if you are faced with this scenario is to adapt it to the specific requirements of the topic.

Presentation content

• Convince them that you are qualified and experienced
• Demonstrate successes
• Outline your contributions on a strategic and detailed level
• Establish good relationships

Be sure to inject

• Professionalism
• Degree of formality
• Controlled enthusiasm
• Pace and drive

A presentation is an ideal opportunity for you, but only you can control your nerves and are clear about the messages you want to communicate. It is likely that this presentation will be in some way related to the job in question and most particularly to the main area of responsibility. Presentations can also be used to establish relationship with the interviewer.

You should also consider whether it is appropriate to take portfolio with you containing samples of your work. To helpful, such things must be clearly relevant and be easy to handle and look at during an interview.