When the recruiter calls you to schedule the interview, try to glean as much information as possible. This information can come in very handy to prepare well for the interview.
- Job Description: If you don’t have enough information or no information about the JD, ask the recruiter to send the details. If the recruiter fails to send it, call up/email and remind him/her to send the details.
- Competition: Try to find out how many others are going to be interviewed or how many have already interviewed so far. If they have interviewed a lot of candidates already, it may be a sign that they are finding it hard to fill the position. This could be good news for you. Boost your confidence based on the fact that they are desperate to fill the position and they are not able to find the right candidate. Give them what they want! You know what they want, don’t you?
- Panel: Find out how many interviewers are going to interview. If it’s just one, try to find out the person’s job title and qualification if possible. Look up the person on LinkedIn and find out more. You created the LinkedIn profile didn’t you?
- Interview Rounds: Find out how many rounds of interviews will be conducted and how long they might last.
- Interview Type: Find out if there are written tests, programming test, aptitude test etc.
The recruiter might not divulge all the information you are asking of her. Especially if the recruiter is an in-house employee. You can still try to sweet talk into finding some information. Be smooth about it, don’t be too pushy or come off as desperate, or nosy!
You will have better luck if the recruiter works for a staffing company and is trying to fill a position for the client. In this case they will usually try to help you to close the deal. Be casual about it don’t make it obvious. Asking for JD details, number of interview rounds and interview
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