Typically, when we think of job interviews, we visualize ourselves across a desk from someone, participating in a question and answer type of dialogue.  The discussion is generally directed by the interviewer and follows a standard format designed to find out specific things about the candidate. Most job seekers have experienced this type of interview, and can prepare effectively for it.  But interview styles are not set in stone, and it is important to be prepared for any interview style which you may face.

Here are a few possible approaches an employer may use:

The standard question and answer interview:  In this context, the interviewer will have a list of prepared questions which pertain directly to your ability to do the job. Typically, the questions will be common to all candidates, and therefore little reference will be made to your resume.  In this interview, it is left to you to find or create opportunities to place emphasis on your particular qualifications, and set yourself apart from the crowd.

The resume verification interview:  In this case, your resume will be the focus of the entire discussion.  You will be asked to clarify statements on the resume, and give examples of situations you faced in a specific past job.  Things like dates and duration of employment will be investigated, and you will probably be asked why you left former jobs, or what you liked and disliked most about past positions.  This is an excellent opportunity to promote yourself, without the element of comparison to other candidates, but it can backfire if your resume is less than bullet proof.

The situational interview: In this type of interview, you will be given hypothetical scenarios and asked to describe how you would handle them.  These theoretical situations can include anything from time management, client service, to conflict with coworkers, etc. You will be asked to provide factual examples of specific situations, as well as respond to suppositions provided by the interviewer. For instance, if you claim to be an excellent project manager, you may be asked to describe a project that you led from start to finish, and show how the company benefited from having you at the helm.

The informal interview:   Some interviewers prefer to go by feel, rather than conduct a structured discussion.  In this case, you may find that the interview bears little relevance to the job or your ability to do it.  It is then left solely up to you to plant pertinent information within the context of the conversation and try to keep the focus on track.

The combination interview:  Some interviewers will start out with a formula in mind, but reserve the option of deviating based on the roll-out of the discussion.  Your answer to a planned question may trigger his request for a situational example, even if that wasn’t on his list of questions. 

Try as you may, you cannot predict what the interview style will be, and you have to be prepared to adapt and remain focused on delivering your message…why you are the best candidate for the job.