How to Ace the Second Interview

Second interviews, if this is possible, are often more stressful than the initial interview. You've already met your prospective employer and you've established the basics of your work history, education and abilities. Now comes the hard part. Second interviews are often much longer than first interviews and may involve meeting different people or even going "behind the scenes". This is more of a "cultural" interview; you and the employer are trying to decide if it's a good fit for the company.

To ace the second interview, you'll need to prepare. Have questions you want to ask already written down and conduct extensive research into the company. Get an idea for how they do business and for their core values. The second interview -- even more so than the first -- is a dual interview, and you should be scrutinizing the employer just as much as he or she is scrutinizing you.

First of all, you can't expect the second interview to be the same as the first. It will probably be longer, as mentioned above, and it might be a panel interview, which involves several corporate representatives interviewing you at the same time. This can be quite intimidating, but you'll be fine if you stay calm and carefully consider each question you are asked. Make sure you are also prepared for a "tour" of the company.

In most cases, you will make a more favorable impression on the hiring manager(s) if you take notes during the second interview. You will probably be given a run-down on the company's mission, goals and culture, as well as specific information related to your job description and responsibilities. Taking notes shows the interviewer(s) that you are serious about pursuing a career with their company and that you plan to review the information once you get home.

One of the most important things about the second interview is that you must show confidence. Walk into the office as though you own the place and keep your head up and your posture straight. Initiate handshakes with everyone you meet and ask questions that show you remember things from the first interview. For example, if you talked about the hiring manager's kids when last you met, ask how Tommy and Sarah are doing. You should also take note of anything that seems to have changed in the office -- for example, a new picture on the wall -- to demonstrate an attention to detail.

You should also realize that a second interview is often more relaxed than the first. You've already passed the first "cut" and the hiring manager(s) are trying to decide which candidate fits with the company culture. They already know that you are qualified or you wouldn't have been asked to return, so don't focus on the details of your resume. Instead, concentrate on showing them that you will "fit in" once you are hired.

The best thing about the second interview is that it's your second chance. Most candidates don't get this opportunity, so take full advantage of it. Everyone -- I don't care how great you are at interviewing -- walks away from an interview thinking of things that he or she should have said. Take note of those things before the interview and remember to ask them or bring them up. Cover all your bases, and you'll be certain to ace the second interview.

And finally, make sure to follow up with the second interview just like you did with the first. Send an e-mail or a thank-you note or give the hiring manager a call to express your appreciation. Every gesture that you make moves your resume to the top of the pile, so take advantage of every opportunity you have. At the end of the interview, make sure to ask the hiring manager(s) if they have any further questions so that you are sure to cover everything before you leave.