top of page

5 Interview Types You Must Conquer to Land Your Dream Job

Job interviews can be nerve-wracking—but they don’t have to be.

 

Whether you’re a recent graduate or a seasoned professional, it helps to know that not all interviews are the same. In fact, there are five distinct types you’re likely to encounter in the hiring process: Screening, Competency-Based, Case Study, Culture Fit, and Bar Raiser interviews.

 

Each format calls for a different strategy, and mastering all five can give you a serious advantage over other candidates.

 

In this article, we’ll break down what each interview type entails, offer proven preparation tips, and show you how to highlight the unique skills and experiences that make you the ideal candidate.

 

By the end, you’ll be well-equipped to walk into any interview with confidence—and walk out one step closer to your dream job.

1. Screening Interviews


Purpose

A quick assessment to see if you meet the basic requirements—both in qualifications and mindset—to move forward in the hiring process.

What to Expect
 

  • Short, focused questions about your experience, availability, and interest in the role.

  • Often conducted by HR representatives or recruiters over a phone or video call.
     

How to Prepare
 

  • Craft a Clear Elevator Pitch: In 60 to 90 seconds, introduce yourself, highlight key achievements, and explain why you’re interested in the position.

  • Research the Company: Understand its products, services, target audience, and goals. That way, your answers connect directly to the employer’s needs.

  • Have Questions Ready: Show genuine interest by asking insightful questions like, “What does success in this role look like?” or “How do you define cultural fit at your company?”
     

Pro Tip: The screening interview is your chance to make a compelling first impression. Prepare a concise personal brand statement that focuses on results.
 

2. Competency-Based Interviews


Purpose

To explore your skills, problem-solving abilities, and work ethic. These interviews often revolve around “behavioral” questions to see how you’ve handled past challenges.
 

What to Expect
 

  • Scenario-based questions like, “Can you share an example of a time when you faced X challenge?”

  • Emphasis on how you approach tasks, interact with teams, and overcome obstacles.
     

How to Prepare
 

  • Use the STAR Method:

    • Situation: Provide context.

    • Task: Outline your responsibility or goal.

    • Action: Detail the steps you took.

    • Result: Highlight the outcome and the value you created.

  • Customize Your Examples: Match your stories to key points in the job description—whether it’s leadership, teamwork, or conflict resolution.

  • Quantify Success: Whenever possible, include numbers or metrics (e.g., increased sales by 15%, saved 20% on project costs).
     

Pro Tip: Employers want to see impact, not just actions. Always end on how your actions benefited the team or organisation.
 

3. Case Study Interviews


Purpose

To evaluate your analytical skills and ability to solve real-world problems in a structured manner.
 

What to Expect
 

  • You’ll be given a hypothetical scenario or actual business case.

  • The interviewer may watch how you reason, prioritize, and communicate your thought process, rather than focusing solely on a “correct” solution.
     

How to Prepare
 

  • Practice Structured Problem-Solving: Break down issues logically (e.g., identify the problem, gather data, propose multiple solutions).

  • Ask Clarifying Questions: Show you can gather relevant information before jumping to conclusions.

  • Aim for Practical Solutions: Explain how you’d implement and measure outcomes in real life.
     

Pro Tip: Don’t just present the final answer—narrate your thinking. Interviewers want to see your step-by-step approach.
 

4. Culture Fit Interviews


Purpose

To determine if your values, personality, and work style align with the company’s culture.
 

What to Expect
 

  • Questions about team dynamics, preferred work environments, and what motivates you.

  • An exploration of how you’ve contributed to past team cultures and relationships.
     

How to Prepare
 

  • Research the Company’s Mission and Values: Are they customer-focused, fast-paced, or big on collaboration? Tailor your responses accordingly.

  • Reflect on Your Work Style: Be honest about the settings in which you thrive (remote vs. in-office, independent vs. team-driven).

  • Give Cultural Examples: Share times you helped a teammate, celebrated success, or navigated a difficult workplace situation.
     

Pro Tip: Authenticity is key. If the culture isn’t a real fit, you’re better off finding out early.
 

5. Bar Raiser Interviews


Purpose

To identify candidates who can elevate the team. Often used by companies like Amazon, a bar raiser interview checks if you’ll bring fresh ideas, leadership, and innovation.
 

What to Expect
 

  • High-level questions about your capacity for leadership, problem-solving, and long-term thinking.

  • A strong focus on how your contributions can raise the bar for the existing team.
     

How to Prepare
 

  • Showcase Significant Achievements: Highlight times you exceeded expectations or introduced innovative solutions.

  • Emphasize Long-Term Impact: Discuss how you handled challenges with sustainability, growth, or big-picture goals in mind.

  • Be Bold, Yet Collaborative: Illustrate how you challenge norms productively and drive team performance.
     

Pro Tip: Bar raisers want to see that you’ll strengthen the team, not just fit in. Focus on standout accomplishments that had lasting benefits.
 

Conclusion


Mastering these five types of interviews—Screening, Competency-Based, Case Study, Culture Fit, and Bar Raiser—positions you as a well-prepared candidate who can handle diverse recruitment approaches. Remember to:
 

  • Research each company and role thoroughly.

  • Practice relevant interviewing frameworks (STAR, structured problem-solving).

  • Show Genuine Enthusiasm for the company culture and mission.

  • Highlight Your Unique Value—the specific ways you can elevate the team.
     

By tailoring your strategy to each interview style, you’ll not only make a positive impression but also gain the clarity you need to decide if the role aligns with your career goals.
 

Final Tip for Job Search Success


Don’t forget the importance of follow-up. A polite, concise thank-you email can reinforce your interest and keep you top of mind—no matter which type of interview you’ve just aced.

bottom of page