The duration of a job interview can vary widely depending on several factors, including the company’s hiring process, the type of job, and the number of interview rounds. On average, a typical job interview can last anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, but it may be longer or shorter.
Type of interview
Different interview formats can impact the length. Initial phone screenings are usually shorter, often 15-30 minutes, while in-person or video interviews may last longer. During an in-person interview, time may also be spent touring the office and meeting potential co-workers.
Number of interview rounds
Some companies have multiple rounds of interviews, each lasting a certain amount of time. You may have a preliminary interview, followed by a panel interview, a skills assessment, and a final interview. The preliminary interview may be a shorter discussion possibly over the phone whereas the panel or final interview may be longer.
Job level
Higher-level or more specialized positions may involve longer interviews, more in-depth questions, and additional assessments. An entry-level role is likely to involve a shorter interview than an executive-level position which may involve multiple rounds of interviews.
Company culture
Some companies have a very structured and lengthy interview process, while others are more streamlined and may have shorter interviews. You can find out more about this by researching the company online before the interview.
Interviewer’s style
The interviewer’s approach can also affect the length of the interview. Some interviewers are more concise and to the point, while others may engage in more detailed conversations.
More Like This: Researching a company before a job interview
Discussion topics
The number and complexity of the topics discussed during the interview can affect its duration. Technical or behavioral questions, situational scenarios, and case studies can all influence how long the interview lasts.
Questions from the candidate
Time is usually allocated at the end of an interview for the candidate to ask questions. If the candidate has many questions for the interviewer, this can extend the interview’s length.
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