Don’t Lose Steam: How to Continue to Impress During Second Round Interviews

Candidates are often conflicted as to whether a second round of interviews is a positive step in their application process. Many are unsure they can keep up the momentum that made their first conversation(s) a success. The truth is that second round interviews are an excellent opportunity for you to ask additional questions, demonstrate your ability to add immediate value, and evaluate whether this is the right opportunity for you.

Be Prepared. While it might be difficult to carve out the time, it is important to prepare for the second round of interviews just as thoroughly as you prepared for the first. Sometimes round two is scheduled in the same week as round one, but often scheduling conflicts can lead to a gap of several weeks in between interviews. Research the employer by checking out their recent news/publications/events, research the interviewers and prepare responses to commonly asked questions. While there might be some familiar faces from the first round of interviews it is likely that you will be introduced to more members of the team and staff. Know who the interviewers are, what roles they play and where you could potentially fall in the team structure if you joined the employer.

Be Consistent. Think back to the initial interview. What were the main topics discussed? What interests and strengths did you highlight? During the second round of interviews you may be asked a few of the same questions. When presenting your responses, be consistent, but also think of fresh examples that demonstrate the strengths you know were attractive to the employer during the first round of interviews.

Be Thorough. Is there anything you wish you had presented about your skillset and expertise? If you feel you missed something during the first round of interviews this is an excellent opportunity to work relevant skills and experiences into the conversation. In addition to having a second chance to highlight your strengths, you also have a second chance to ask thoughtful and pointed questions about the work of the group and the day-to-day responsibilities of the role.

Be Yourself. Remind yourself that employers are often busy and do not bring candidates in for second round interviews unless they have a continued interest. The initial interviewers were confident in how you presented your qualifications on paper and, after the initial conversation, had faith in your ability to complete the tasks required of the position. During this second round you are again being evaluated for your ability but you are also being evaluated for how you would fit in with the culture of the employer.

Be Alert. This is an opportunity for you to determine whether this employer is the right fit for you. Evaluate the culture of the firm and the work the team is doing. Ask yourself some of the following questions: Do I like/respect/want to work with the interviewers I have met? Can I see myself working long hours with the members of the team? Do I like the office space/location? Do the interviewers seem to get along? Has anyone said or done anything I find offensive?

The job search process takes time but each round of interviews is a step closer to an offer and an opportunity for you to learn more.

The best feedback I have received from candidates who have successfully completed multiple rounds of interviews is that the more people they met and the more they learned about the opportunity and the vision of the employer, the more excited they were about a potential offer. Get excited about this second round!

Tiffany Sepulveda Kahlon, experienced recruiter, career adviser and attorney, has counseled hundreds of candidates in their search for legal career opportunities resulting in successful placements across the national legal market. As Founder of The Kahlon Network, Tiffany builds relationships with legal employers and candidates, understanding their abilities, interests and needs while exploring their growth potential.