Top 4 Interviewing Styles of Employers: How to be a More Effective Interviewer by Understanding Your Interviewer’s Style

Making a good impression during the interview is often a key step in securing a job. If you are unable to convey your assets to the interviewer in a manner that they will understand, the interview is destined to fail. Communicating effectively can significantly increase your chances of success.

There are four major questioning styles that you will encounter during the interview;

• interactive,
• practical,
• methodical; and,
• creative.

It is important to match the interviewer’s style when answering a question. This does not mean that you should lie or try to change your personality to match the interviewer. It suggests that you respond in a manner that best answers each specific question.

Interactive type questions normally relate to feelings, relationships and personal attributes. Such questions might include; “What type of relationship did you have with your co-workers?” or “How would you describe your management style?” The best way to respond to these types of questions is to describe your feelings and attitudes regarding the “people side” of the equation.

Practical questions address results, final outcomes and achievements. Examples would be; “During your time with ABC company, what sort of increase in sales did you see in your territory?” or “What was the turnover rate in your department?” Respond to this type of question with the specific results rather than spending too much time on extra details. Many times, your response will lead to further questions asking for more detail.

A methodical type question asks for procedures, strategies and methods rather than blanket results. For example; “Tell me what you did to increase sales by 50% in your territory.” or “What were your training procedures for new employees?” This type of question should be answered with a step-by-step description of your specific actions and their results. Be thorough – a cursory or vague response will only frustrate the interviewer.

Finally, creative type questions elicit responses about ideas, possibilities and values. An example might be; “How do you think we could increase our competitive advantage?” The best way to respond to this type of question is to discuss your beliefs or to explore possibilities. Take this opportunity to impress the interviewer with your ideas!

Keep in mind that one interviewer may use several different styles based on the type of information they are seeking. Listen carefully to the wording of each question and try to adjust your approach accordingly. Don’t let this worry you too much, though. If you are afraid that you didn’t completely answer a question, simply ask the interviewer if he or she would like additional information.