Did you know that 47% of job seekers are only invited to one or two interviews after applying for as many as 10 positions? That’s why the stakes feel sky-high when we finally make it to the interview stage.
Moreover, nailing one interview doesn’t mean the job is yours. You’ll often need to survive multiple rounds of interviews with different stakeholders before that golden offer letter appears in your inbox.
Different types of job interviews, from panel interviews to group discussions and technical assessments, test various aspects of a candidate’s skills.
In this article, we will explore the different types of interview formats and understand how you can excel at each one of them.
Summarize this article for me please⏰60-second Summary
- Post-interview follow-ups and thoughtful thank-you notes can keep you on top of mind
- Knowing different interview formats (like one-on-one, panel, and remote) helps you prepare strategically
- Each format evaluates unique skills: from individual problem-solving to teamwork in group settings
- Specialized formats like the STAR method or case studies test behavioral and analytical skills
- Prep tips include researching the company, practicing responses, and understanding the role’s demands
Types of Interview Formats and Styles for Career Growth
Summarize this article for me pleaseCommon Types of Interview Formats
Here’s the kicker: most candidates don’t realize how much the interview format can reveal about what an employer is looking for and how they expect you to perform in the role.
This guide breaks down common interview formats, showing you how each style works and what it’s designed to assess. We’ll take four candidates—July, Kevin, Maxxine, and Levi—through various interview formats that match their unique professions.
1. One-on-one interviews
One-on-one interviews are the classic setup—just you and the interviewer in a (hopefully) friendly chat. This interview style is typically used when employers want to get a detailed look at a candidate’s experience, problem-solving skills, and personality.
📌 Example: July, Software Developer
July is a talented software developer, and her job requires deep technical skills. She’s been invited for a one-on-one interview where she’ll discuss her background, technical skills, and some situational problem-solving.
For her, the one-on-one setting makes sense because the hiring manager wants to see her individual approach to coding challenges and understand her specific technical skills without the distractions of other candidates or a big panel.
Also Read: How Our Onboarding Team Uses ClickUp
2. Panel interviews
Panel interviews involve multiple interviewers and just one candidate.
Here, hiring managers, potential team members, and sometimes even executives take turns asking questions, making sure everyone’s perspective is covered.
📌 Example: Kevin, Marketing Specialist
Kevin, a marketing whiz, is all about creativity and collaboration, so his interview has a mix of key stakeholders: the marketing manager, a couple of key team members, and the head of the department.
In this format, Kevin needs to showcase how his past campaigns have driven results, proving he’s got the marketing chops the team needs.
The panel interview format allows each interviewer to assess Kevin’s fit from multiple angles—strategy, creativity, and team collaboration.
3. Group interviews
In group interviews, multiple candidates for job positions are brought together and interviewed simultaneously by one or more interviewers.
📌 Example: Maxxine, Customer Service Representative
Maxxine, who’s vying for a customer service role, is up for a group interview with other candidates. Her potential employer wants to observe how she interacts with others and how well she communicates.
In customer service, you often need to work well with others under pressure, so a group interview is perfect for seeing who shines in a collaborative environment.
So, Maxxine will need to demonstrate her skills in handling multiple perspectives and maintaining her cool—both are essential in customer service!
4. Video or remote interviews
Video or remote interviews have become the go-to format, especially for remote roles or initial screenings. Candidates and interviewers connect through platforms like Zoom, Teams, or Skype, allowing the hiring team to reach a larger pool of candidates quickly and conveniently.
📌 Example: Levi, Graphic Designer
Levi, a graphic designer who often works remotely, has been invited to a video interview.
Since his work doesn’t require a physical presence at the office, a remote interview is the ideal format.
The interviewer is interested in how Levi adapts to remote work, his design skills, and his creative thought process.
A video interview allows Levi to present his portfolio and discuss his design approach without needing to be on-site.
Summarize this article for me pleaseSpecialized Interview Formats
Not all interviews follow the classic one-on-one setup. In the world of hiring, there’s a buffet of specialized formats.
Here’s a look at some of the most popular specialized interview formats and how to shine in each one.
1. STAR method: Explanation and usage in interviews
The STAR Method—Situation, Task, Action, Result—is your go-to framework for tackling behavioral interview questions with confidence.
✅ How to use the STAR Method:
- Situation: Briefly set the scene with relevant context
- Task: Explain your specific responsibility in that scenario
- Action: Describe the steps you took to handle the task
- Result: Wrap up with the positive outcome, using metrics if possible
✅ Why use it?
- Keeps answers focused: STAR keeps responses clear and structured
- Showcases impact: Illustrates the value of your actions
- Builds credibility: Real examples show you’re the real deal
📌 Example STAR response:
Question: “Tell me about a time you overcame a challenge.”
Answer: “For a product launch, our main design vendor pulled out at the last minute. (Situation)
My task was to find a replacement fast. (Task)
I networked to find a reliable freelancer and managed them closely. (Action)
The campaign launched on time and boosted sales by 30%. (Result)”
Also Read: How to Optimize Human Resource Processes
2. Case study interviews: What they are and how to succeed
Case study interviews are a test of brains and business savvy! In these interviews, you’re given a hypothetical business scenario to analyze, dissect, and solve—essentially showcasing your problem-solving ability, critical thinking, and practical business knowledge.
✅ Key points about case study interviews:
- Purpose: Evaluate how well you can structure a problem, gather info, and present a logical solution to a business challenge
- Format: You’re presented with a case scenario—often packed with data—and expected to ask questions, identify issues, and make recommendations
- Skills evaluated: Analytical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and the ability to stay cool and logical under pressure
📌 Example case study response:
Question: “A coffee shop chain is seeing a decline in foot traffic. How would you approach this?”
Answer: “First, I’d confirm if the drop is specific to certain locations or a chain-wide issue. I’d also ask about any recent changes in menu, pricing, or competition nearby.
Using a SWOT analysis, I’d examine:
- Strengths: The chain’s unique selling points, like customer loyalty
- Weaknesses: Any negative feedback on service or product quality
- Opportunities: Expanding digital marketing or launching a loyalty program
- Threats: Increased competition or changing customer preferences
To address this, I’d recommend:
- Launching a loyalty program to boost repeat visits
- Running local promotions to attract new customers
- Enhancing the café ambiance to encourage longer stays
If each store can increase traffic by 15% through these efforts, we’d see a significant uptick in sales.”
3. Behavioral interviews: Purpose and common questions
Behavioral interviews are all about getting a sneak peek into how you’ve handled real-life situations in the past to predict how you’d tackle future challenges.
These questions usually sound like, “Tell me about a time when…” or “Give an example of when…” and they’re designed to dig deep into your skills, resilience, and professional personality.
✅ Key points about behavioral interviews:
- Purpose: To gauge how you’ve managed past situations relevant to the role, giving insight into how you might handle future challenges.
- Question format: Often start with, “Tell me about a time when…” or “Give an example of when…”
- Common areas assessed:
- Conflict resolution: How do you handle a clash with colleagues or clients?
- Teamwork: Describe a time you worked well with others
- Problem-solving: Explain a complex issue you solved
- Time management: How did you prioritize tasks under pressure?
- Communication skills: Give an example of delivering tough news
✅ Common behavioral interview questions:
- “Tell me about a time you had to overcome a big challenge at work”
- “Describe a situation where you dealt with a difficult customer”
- “How did you handle a disagreement with a teammate?”
- “Give an example of going above and beyond your job”
- “Can you share a quick decision you made under pressure?”
📌 Example behavioral interview response:
Question: “Tell me about a time you had to resolve a conflict with a team member.”
Answer: “In my previous role, a teammate and I disagreed on the best approach for a project deadline. (Situation)
My task was to find a way to resolve the conflict without delaying the project. (Task)
I scheduled a quick meeting to discuss our points, listened to their perspective, and shared mine. We compromised by combining our ideas, which improved the project and kept us on schedule. (Action)
In the end, we delivered on time, and the project got positive feedback from both clients and managers. (Result)”
Summarize this article for me pleaseChoosing the Right Interview Format
Picking the right interview format isn’t a one-size-fits-all decision. It depends on the role, the company culture, and even the candidate’s preferences.
Here’s what to consider.
Consider the role and company culture
To decide upon the right interview format, start with understanding the role and the unique culture of your company.
Virtual interviews, once rare, became the norm as remote work took off during the pandemic. Today, they’re still popular, with many companies opting for virtual interviews at least partially in their hiring process.
But the decision isn’t always straightforward—different roles might call for different setups.
For example, at Playvox, a workforce management software firm, nearly all interviews are virtual, with one big exception: leadership roles. As their VP of People and Culture explains, evaluating an executive’s presence and interpersonal skills through video interviews alone can be challenging, so they prefer in-person interviews for higher-level roles.
Meanwhile, companies like PwC conduct virtual interviews in a one-on-one format to foster personal connection, usually pairing candidates with employees who can share insights about life at the firm.
The takeaway? Think about what best aligns with both the role’s demands and your company’s values.
Candidate preferences
Time to consider the other side of the coin—the interview format isn’t just about company convenience; candidate preference plays a big role too.
The American Staffing Association found that 70% of American job seekers still prefer in-person interviews.
Why? Candidates like to see the company environment and meet their potential teammates face-to-face.
Yet, there are plenty who’d rather never set foot in an office—let alone for an interview.
Balancing these preferences can create a positive candidate experience while still meeting your hiring goals.
When considering interview formats to suit candidates, keep these factors in mind:
- Flexibility: Virtual interviews work well for those who need flexibility in scheduling and location, particularly remote-friendly roles or candidates in different time zones. Asynchronous video responses also offer flexibility
- Job role requirements: Technical roles might call for technical interviews with live challenges or coding tasks. In contrast, collaborative positions might benefit from panel interviews to assess how candidates interact with multiple stakeholders
Summarize this article for me pleasePreparing for Different Interview Formats
General preparation tips for any interview
Preparing for an interview can feel like gearing up for a performance—but with the right prep, you’ll feel like the star of the show.
👨🏻🎓 First up, candidates: Research the company.
Understanding its mission, values, and latest projects will not only impress your interviewer but also help you tailor your responses, showing you’re genuinely interested in joining their team.
And don’t skip reviewing the job description. By aligning your experience with the role’s requirements, you’ll be ready to connect the dots between your specific skills and what the company needs.
👩🏻💼 Interviewers, you play a big role in setting the stage. Sending candidates a quick overview of what to expect can make them feel more relaxed and prepared.
If your interview format involves multiple rounds or different interview styles, a heads-up will help candidates prepare appropriately and prevent surprises.
👨🏻🎓 Candidates, practice makes perfect! Rehearse your answers to common questions, especially the dreaded “Tell me about yourself.” Practicing aloud (with a friend or the mirror) can ease nerves and help you focus on clear, concise responses.
👩🏻💼 Interviewers, make it a two-way street by encouraging open conversation.
Starting with a warm welcome and small talk can help candidates relax, setting a friendly tone for the discussion.
💡 Pro Tip: Mind the body language—sit up straight, maintain eye contact, and show interest with nods or smiles—these little cues speak volumes.
Specific preparation strategies for video and remote interviews
Meet Jack, a candidate, and Monica, an interviewer. Both are gearing up for a remote interview, and they’ve got some go-to strategies (plus ClickUp’s tools) to make the experience engaging.
- Set up your space: Jack picks a clean, quiet spot with good lighting to keep Monica’s attention on him, not his background clutter. He schedules a Zoom test using ClickUp’s Zoom integration to make sure his setup is crystal clear
- Organize your notes: Jack uses ClickUp Notepad to jot down key points—like his top achievements and a few questions about the company—so he’s ready to reference them without seeming like he’s reading from a script
- Dress professionally: Jack knows that dressing sharply can help him feel more confident. Even for a remote interview, he’s got his blazer on just in case he needs to stand up
- Engage naturally: Monica starts with a little small talk to ease Jack into the conversation, building a comfortable atmosphere. She keeps eye contact with the camera (not the screen) to simulate face-to-face interaction, making Jack feel more connected
- Take quick notes and track progress: Jack uses ClickUp Notepad to jot down Monica’s questions and any key points, while Monica tracks topics covered, adding notes on Jack’s responses so she can stay focused and organized
💡 Pro Tip: Set a ClickUp Reminder to follow up after the interview! A quick thank-you email shows appreciation and keeps you top-of-mind with the interviewer.
How to prepare for panel and group interviews
After impressing Monica in his first remote interview, Jack is now invited back for a panel and group interview.
With more faces and perspectives involved, both Jack and Monica are leaning on a few strategic moves—and ClickUp Docs—to make the process smooth and effective
- Research the panel members: Jack takes time to learn about each panel member’s role and background. Knowing a bit about their areas of expertise allows him to tailor his responses and connect with each person
- Use ClickUp Brain for custom interview questions: Monica and her team use ClickUp Brain to generate a set of questions tailored to Jack’s experience and the role’s requirements. With a quick prompt, ClickUp Brain suggests insightful questions for assessing Jack’s strengths, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork skills. Monica refines these questions and adds them to ClickUp Docs, making sure every panelist has access
- Organize questions in ClickUp Docs: Using ClickUp Docs, Monica centralizes the questions and structures them into categories like teamwork, technical skills, and situational responses. She assigns specific questions to each panelist through real-time comments, ensuring no overlap and a smooth flow during the interview
- Develop a strong opening statement: Jack crafts a clear and engaging introduction generated by ClickUp Brain that covers his experience, skills, and enthusiasm for the role. He practices this statement a few times to ensure a confident start
- Engage with everyone: During the panel interview, Jack maintains eye contact with the person asking the question but makes a point to glance at other panelists
- Summarize responses with ClickUp Brain: After the interview, Monica uses ClickUp Brain to summarize notes and key points from Jack’s responses. This makes it easy to capture his strengths, areas of improvement, and overall fit for the role, which she can share with the hiring team
Also Read: How to Use AI for Interview Preparation
ClickUp’s Interview Process Template
62% of job applicants prefer automated information over long email chains.
This stat highlights how much candidates value quick, efficient communication during the hiring process—and that’s exactly where ClickUp’s templates come in handy.
The Interview Process Template by ClickUp is designed to simplify your recruitment process every step. From organizing questions to collaborating with team members, it ensures a smooth, consistent experience for both candidates and interviewers, cutting down on back-and-forth and helping you spot top talent faster.
And if you’re a candidate, ClickUp’s Job Search Template is your secret weapon for staying organized. With it, you can manage applications, track follow-ups, and consolidate all job postings in one place.
Summarize this article for me pleaseHandling Different Interview Situations
Preparing for specialized industry interviews can feel like a new level in your career game.
Here’s how to level up:
- Thorough research: Go beyond the basics. Understand the industry’s key players, jargon, and current trends. Showing deep knowledge proves you’re invested and can tackle industry-specific challenges
- Track preparation tasks with ClickUp’s Task Management: Use ClickUp to organize and track research tasks, like reviewing industry reports or listing essential skills. This way, you won’t overlook any prep step and can focus on what matters
- Know the role: Break down the job description and match each responsibility with your experience. Reflect on past projects that align with the role’s demands, so you’re ready to discuss specific examples that highlight your qualifications
- Practice scenarios: Think through common industry-specific challenges and how you’d handle them. Develop structured, clear responses to showcase your problem-solving and analytical skills—bonus points if you roleplay with a friend for real-time feedback
- Show adaptability: Industries evolve, and so do employers’ expectations. Be ready to discuss how you stay up-to-date and adapt to changes, whether through courses, networking, or industry events
- Ask insightful questions: Demonstrate your knowledge by asking about the company’s position in the industry, challenges, or strategic goals. Intelligent questions show you’re already thinking like a team member
One Reddit user transformed their job hunt using a custom ClickUp Dashboard.
They created a visual command center for tracking job applications across platforms, seeing real-time status updates, and spotting trends in their efforts.
Also Read: 15 Best AI Writing Tools for Content
Summarize this article for me pleasePost-Interview Strategies
- Send a follow-up email within 24 hours to thank your interviewer(s) and express your continued interest in the role. For a panel or group interview format, personalize each note to address something specific each panelist mentioned
- Use ClickUp’s Reminders to ensure timely follow-ups. Set reminders directly within your task, specifying the date and time for follow-up actions. You can even set recurring reminders for multi-stage interview processes to keep everything on track
Common Mistakes to Avoid After Interviews
- Waiting too long to follow up: Don’t let time slip by. A quick follow-up shows enthusiasm; waiting too long might make it seem like you’re not as interested
- Not proofreading follow-ups: Typos or grammar mistakes in your follow-up can leave a poor impression. Proofread carefully before hitting ‘send’
- Sending generic messages: Personalize each follow-up email, especially after panel interviews. Mention specific details from the conversation to show genuine interest
📌 Example:
Subject: Thank You for the Opportunity
Hi [Interviewer’s Name],
Thank you for the great conversation about the [Job Title] role. I’m excited about the chance to join [Company Name] and contribute to [mention specific goal or project discussed]. Please let me know if I can provide any further information.
Best,
[Your Name]
Summarize this article for me pleaseFrom Interviews to Follow-Ups: Become Job Offer-Ready With ClickUp
Irrespective of the interview format, the average interview lasts about 40 minutes—a pivotal 40 minutes where your career goals, ambitions, and hard work come together.
ClickUp helps you make the most of every minute.
With ClickUp’s customizable features, you can turn your job search into a smooth, data-driven journey that keeps you motivated at every step.
Sign up for ClickUp today and ace your interviews!
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