Good news! You've been invited back for a second interview (or a
third or fourth). But, you feel that you've already covered
everything in the first interview? How will this interview be
different from the first? How do you prepare for the second
round?


Can you do the job?

When you are asked back for a second interview it means that you
are considered a viable candidate for the position and you are
qualified to do the job.

Second interviews vary with each company. Since you are going to
meet with different people, you can expect to be asked some of
the same questions, beginning with “Tell me about yourself," or
"Walk me through your resume."


Do we like you – are you going to fit in?

They know you have the skills by now, and will be looking to see
personality and cultural fit. You will be measured against other
candidates who have applied for the same position. It is
important that you leave the interviewer with something to make
you “remembered.” Think of five strengths you have and pick the
one that you feel differentiates you from the pack. An example
would be a technical person who has great customer service
skills.

A good way to let the interviewer know about you is through
other’s quotes. "If you were to ask my last boss he would tell
you that I am his right hand man -- or woman."

Your challenge is to set yourself apart from the pack. It will be
necessary to let the employer know that you are a great match for
the position and that you have what it takes to do this job.

"Fit" is an important factor. Be sure to review your match to the
position description -- from the company's standpoint as well as
your own.


Be prepared for other topics to surface

Other subjects may come up in this interview such as salary
requirements and benefits. Prepare by doing some research on
salary and some thinking about your benefits requirements. You
cannot negotiate a salary until you have an offer, but you can
prepare by knowing the "going rate" for your position --
salary.com. You should also do a budget sheet of your expenses
and figure out what it costs you to live each month - your salary
needs. You should know your "walk away" number. When you cannot
afford to take the job.

It is a competitive job market and you will have to sell yourself
whether it is a first or second interview. Continue to
congratulate yourself each time you get that call for a second
interview -- you just got to the next rung up the ladder towards
that job offer.