Like sequential interviews, serial interviews consist of several interviews. But whereas a decision was made after each of the interviews in the sequential interview process as to whether a candidate would be called back for another interview, serial interviews are set up as a series from the beginning and no decision is made concerning the candidate until the entire series of interviews has been completed.
Usually the interviews are scheduled with a variety of people. They may consist of several types of interviews and be held over one or several days. A candidate may meet with a vice-president of the company early in the day and then have a series of meetings with a couple of department managers during the morning. A lunch meeting may be scheduled with additional managers, after which the candidate may return to meet one-on-one with a series of additional people. The evening may be free or may continue with dinner at a nearby restaurant or in someone's home. The next day may bring additional interviews or an opportunity for the candidate to demonstrate his or her skill in some way. A candidate interviewing for a faculty position may be asked to teach a class, an advertising executive may be asked to present part of an advertising campaign, or a salesperson may be asked to sell a product.
If you find yourself engaged in a series of interviews, make sure to treat each interview with each different person as if it were your first.
After talking all day with a series of individuals, some candidates become mentally fatigued and don't focus as well on their accomplishments or their dynamism wanes. Remember this is your first interview with this individual. Remain focused on getting the information about the position that you will need to sell yourself and later to make your decision when you are offered the job. Be sure to answer questions fully—even though this is the third time you've been asked that question in the same day. Continue to sell your strengths and maintain your dynamic presentation as you respond.
If you find yourself engaged in a series of interviews, make sure to treat each interview with each different person as if it were your first.
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