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The final interview is your last chance to make a good impression on the hiring manager. Generally, if you’ve gotten to this point, you’ve already had a phone interview and a more formal in-person or Zoom interview, and you’ve been considered a strong enough candidate to move forward.
If you’ve reached the final interview stage, then that means that you’re considered a strong candidate. You’re likely only up against one or two other people, which means putting your best foot forward is especially important to make sure that you cross the finish line.
Key Takeaways:
When going in for a final interview, don’t go in overly confident and assume that you have the job.
Make sure you prepare for this interview by reviewing previous interview notes, reviewing the company and position again, and preparing a list of questions to ask.
Answer all behavioral questions using the STAR (situation, task, action, result) method.
Final interviews tend to be longer, averaging around 30-60 minutes long.
In This Article
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- What is a final interview?
- How to prepare for a final interview
- Final interview questions with example answers
- What to ask in a final interview
- What not to ask in a final interview
- Final interview FAQs
- References
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What is a final interview?
The final interview is the last step in the interview process. It’s typically the second or third interview you’ll have with the company, depending on their hiring practices and the number of strong candidates for the position.
Final interviews are longer, typically running 30-60 minutes, and involve more of the hiring decision-makers. This can be either higher-ups at the organization, people close to the position they’re interviewing for, or both.
It also means that they’re likely down to two or three candidates and are looking to make a final decision. That means that you should make sure to be fully prepared for the interview and make sure you’re showcasing what makes you a good pick for the job.
How to prepare for a final interview
Making sure you’re fully prepared is necessary to impress the interviewer in your final interview. Research the company and the interviewer; check over the job description so you’re sure of what skills to highlight; and make sure to double-check your resume so that you’re prepared for any questions they ask about it.
Look over past interviews. Since this is your second or third meeting with the company, chances are many of the questions will be focused on revisiting topics from your earlier interviews.
Look over your notes to remind yourself about what you talked about in your last meeting so that you’re ready to continue the conversation.
Consider answers you gave that you want to make sure you reframe or expound upon, and come up with a few more anecdotes that further highlight your experience so that you have something new to share.
Come prepared with a list of questions. This interview is also an opportunity for you to find out what you need to know about the company so that you can make your decision about accepting a potential job offer.
Prepare a list of questions to ask, but also make sure you’re thinking of them as you go through the interview. Think through what you would want to know during your first week or two working at the company and ask those now.
Anticipate more in-depth questions. Final interviews tend to focus more on behavioral and relationship type questions so be prepared to give more details in your answer. The best way to answer these questions is to use the STAR method:
Situation. Start by describing details of the situation that provide context.
Task. This is where you explain what your responsibility was during the situation.
Action. This is going to be the longest part of your answer. You will be describing the actions that you took to solve the situation.
Result. This is where you explain the outcome of the situation and highlight the positive results of the situation.
Don’t assume you have the position. It can be exciting to reach the final stage of the interview process, but you should never assume that means you have gotten the job. You should still go into this interview just as prepared as you were during the initial stages of the interview process.
Present yourself well. When it comes down to the final interview, small factors can make all the difference. Be sure to dress professionally for your interview, show interest and enthusiasm, and be well-rested.
While going to yet another interview isn’t anyone’s idea of a good time, seeming lackadaisical, overconfident, or uninterested can make the interviewer gravitate toward a different candidate.
Don’t forget the thank you email. At this point, you’ve likely already sent a thank you email or two, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t send another. For one thing, many organizations will have different interviewers at different stages.
And even if they don’t, someone still took time out of their day to interview you, which you should thank them for. It’s also a way to show that you’re still invested in and enthusiastic about the opportunity.
Final interview questions with example answers
While no interviewer will ask exactly the same questions, there are still ways to prepare for what you’ll be asked in the final interview. Reviewing previous interview questions is a good place to start, as the interviewer may wish to go more in-depth. In addition, here are sample questions you can look over and consider how best to answer.
Now that you’ve learned the full scope of this position, what are your salary expectations?
Always base your answer to this question on research you’ve done about typical salaries within this industry and geographic location or on your own knowledge of industry standards.
Example Answer
“My salary expectation is between $35,000 and $45,000, which is the average salary for someone in this industry with my experience in this area. I’m willing to negotiate, though.”
If hired, how would you want to grow within the company? How would you accomplish this?
Your interviewer wants to know that they’re hiring a self-motivated employee who will continue to grow and improve. They also want to see that you’ve researched the company, so make sure you show that you know how it’s structured.
Example Answer
“I would work to be as effective and efficient as possible in my role and seek out professional development opportunities and chances to work with other departments to expand my experience.
“Eventually, I would love to be able to put my skills to work with more responsibility by applying for a leadership position that would be a good fit for my abilities and then working my way up to become a Vice President.”
What are your hobbies and interests?
Your interviewer wants to make sure you’re a well-rounded person who will fit well with the organization. Be honest about what you like to do, but also try to think of ways to relate them to the position you’re applying for.
Example Answer
“I love to travel. It helps me expand my point of view, teaches me how to solve problems on the fly, and gives me practice staying calm under pressure. Plus, I get to meet new people from all over the world.”
Tell me about a conflict you’ve encountered and how you handled it.
Your interviewer wants an example of your interpersonal skills in action. Be detailed in your answer and be sure to include the result of your efforts.
Example Answer
“In my previous position, I was in charge of coordinating an interdepartmental project.
“After I sent out the first informational email to the team, I found out that one more person had been added to the project. Because of this, I hadn’t included him in the email, and he quickly realized it in the first meeting.
“The person was offended and confronted me about it. I asked if we could talk privately, where I apologized, explained that it hadn’t been intentional, and assured him that he’d be on all future emails.
“Thankfully, he accepted my apology and there were no more issues between us.”
When could you start?
This question is pretty straightforward, so answer honestly. If you’re willing to be flexible, be sure to say so.
Example Answer
“I would need to give two weeks’ notice as soon as I accepted the position, and then I could start as soon as that time has passed. Beyond that, I am flexible.”
Tell me about a time you had to deal with a lot of stress at work.
This is another question that requires a story. Be detailed and show the steps you take to reduce stress.
Example Answer
“During my time in my most recent position, I had three major projects that all happened to be due during the same week. I had to be very careful about prioritizing my tasks, blocking out time to work on them, and intentionally relaxing at home in the evenings so I’d be ready to go in the morning.
“It took a lot of hard work, but I was able to complete everything successfully.”
If you were in charge of a team, how would you go about motivating them?
Whether you’re applying for a leadership position or not, your interviewer wants to see that you have these skills in case you are eventually put in that position.
Example Answer
“I believe that one of the best ways to lead is by example, so I would work to set a positive tone and show that I’m invested in the project by completing my tasks well.
“I would work to build relationships with the team and find ways to make it an enjoyable experience by putting incentives in place and giving recognition for a job well done.”
What type of work environment do you prefer?
A major part of the final interview is to determine if you’ll be a good fit for the company beyond your skill set. Be honest, and show that you understand the environment in the company you’re applying to.
Example Answer
“I enjoy collaborating with others, so I tend to work best in environments that foster that, just like your open office setup does.”
What motivates you?
This is another question that interviewers ask to make sure you’ll be a good fit for their company. Talk about what made you apply for this position and what motivated you in past jobs. Be specific, and tell a story if you can.
Example Answer
“I enjoy solving problems and coming up with creative solutions. When I worked as a social media manager, I loved looking at which web pages we needed to draw more people to and then coming up with a social media strategy to do that.
“I successfully increased the average daily traffic on three of our main web pages through these campaigns, and I got excited when I saw the opportunity to do even more of these projects with this marketing position.”
How do you prioritize your tasks?
Your answer to this question will reveal a little more about how you handle your workload and responsibilities. Be as specific as possible in your answer to paint a picture for the interviewer.
Example Answer
“At the beginning of each week, I set aside 15 minutes to organize my to-do list. I sort tasks into three priority levels and then put the ones with due dates on my calendar.
I then schedule times when I’m going to complete my most important tasks throughout the week and work the lower priority ones around those. That way, if something goes wrong, I can bump those back and still have time to complete my top priorities.”
How do you like to be managed?
Another part of making sure you’re a good fit for the company’s culture is making sure you’d work well with your potential manager’s style. Stay positive and honest, and provide examples when possible.
Example Answer
“I thrive when I’m given a goal to reach or project to complete but then have the freedom to figure out the steps I need to take to get there.
“For example, I had one boss who would work with me to set goals and then let me figure out how to reach them.
“She’d check in with me along the way to see if I needed anything and how I was progressing, but other than that, it was up to me to complete them.”
What should I know that isn’t on your resume?
This is your chance to talk about a qualification, personality trait, or anecdote that further reveals why you’re the best person for the job. You can also talk about any goals you have that are similar to the company’s.
Example Answer
“One thing that isn’t on my resume is my passion for helping people reach their goals. Being able to teach at a community college would combine my knowledge of teaching English as a second language and my passion for helping people get on a path to fulfilling their dreams.”
How would your current colleagues describe you?
When you answer this question, make sure you’re truthful but positive. Especially during a final interview, try to think of things that haven’t been brought up yet.
Example Answer
“My colleagues would describe me as efficient, hard-working, and creative.”
Tell me about a time you made a mistake. How did you handle it?
Your interviewers know that everyone makes mistakes, so they want to see how you respond when you do. Just remember to end with what you learned and how you prevented it from happening again.
Example Answer
“I once miscalculated a part of our final budget report, which resulted in an incorrect report going before the board. As soon as I realized the mistake, I told my supervisor, who was able to contact the board members and correct the report.
From then on, I’ve always made sure to check my work three times or have someone else look at it as well before I turn it in.”
Why did you leave your last job?
This is one of the few interview questions where you shouldn’t launch into a detailed anecdote to illustrate your point. Be honest, optimistic, and brief, and try to form your answers so that it points back to why this position would be a good fit.
Example Answer
After working at my last company for seven years, I’m ready for a new challenge, and there weren’t any opportunities to do that there. I saw that this position would be a great fit for my skills and give me a chance to use them in a new way.”
What are you passionate about?
Interviewers ask this question in order to get to know you better, so there is no one right answer. As always, though, relate it to the position you’re applying for if you can.
Example Answer
“I’m passionate about connecting with people and building relationships with them. I love creating partnerships where we make each other better. This is one of the reasons why I got into public relations in the first place.”
How do you define success?
Your potential employer wants to see that you know how to set and reach goals and will work hard to make the company successful. Showcase this in your answer by sharing what you actively do to make sure you’re successful.
Example Answer
“I define success as completing my responsibilities in such a way that they help both my team and the company as a whole succeed. To do this, I make sure I’m not only doing my everyday tasks to the best of my ability, but that I’m also searching out ways to grow and support others on my team.”
Where do you see yourself in five years?
This question helps your interviewer see what your long-term goals are and if you’re thinking you’ll be at the company for the long haul. Be honest about your hopes and ambitions and how they relate to this job.
Example Answer
“In five years I see myself in a management role where I can use my experience in sales to lead a branch of my own.”
Why should we hire you?
This is a great opportunity to share again what sets you apart from the one or two other candidates they’re considering. You don’t even need to know who they are to be able to share the unique traits and experiences you bring to the table.
Example Answer
“You should hire me because I’m a self-starter who has experience in both design and management. These skills would be a great fit for this leadership role, because I have both the technical knowledge and people skills needed to lead this department effectively.”
Why did you apply for this role?
The interviewer wants to make sure that you’re invested in this particular position. It’s an investment for the company to hire a new person, and they’ll be more inclined towards someone who’s actually interested in the job. That is an indication that you’ll be inclined to stay longer, and that you’ll put more effort into your job.
Example Answer
“I’ve been looking to pursue something new and challenging, and this job looks like exactly the sort of thing I was searching for. It’ll keep me on toes, all while helping me to learn more about management and operations. Challenging myself is the best way to keep myself engaged and motivated, and this position sounds like it’ll do just that.”
What to ask in a final interview
If you’ve made it to the final interview, then the interviewer will assume you’re invested. That means that being asked if there are any questions you have is common. Being prepared for this is a plus in terms of showcasing your interest in the job, as well as the fact that you’re the type of person who does their homework.
Here are some questions to consider asking:
What does a typical day look like for someone in this position?
Who will I be working under?
What is the average turnover rate at the company? How long was my predecessor in this position?
What are some of the biggest challenges the person in this position would face?
What is your favorite part about working for the company?
Are there any hesitations you have about hiring me that I can address?
What about my qualifications appeal to you the most?
Is there any other information or work samples I can provide for you?
What are the next steps in the interview process?
What not to ask in a final interview
Remember that you’re trying to impress the interviewer in your final interview. Be careful of what questions you choose to ask: they should show interest in the job and company and a strong work ethic. Some questions you can save for after you get your job offer, and others you should already know the answer to.
What will my salary and benefits look like?
Who is your competition?
How often do you review your employees?
Will I be able to have a flexible work schedule?
How many vacation days will I get?
Would you like to see my references?
How quickly could I get promoted?
Will I get my own office?
Do you have rules about personal social media profiles?
Final interview FAQs
Is a final interview just a formality?
No, the final interview is typically not just a formality. Your final interview is your last opportunity to impress your hiring manager before they officially make their decision.
Remember, you may still be going up against a pool of other final candidates. Just because you landed the final interview doesn’t mean you have the job. However, on rare occasions, the candidate may be offered the job on the spot or very soon after the final interview.
How is a final interview different?
The final interview is often much more in-depth and specific, as the hiring manager is already generally familiar with your skills and experience. Final interviews will differ depending on the company.
Sometimes the final interview is used as a comparison to other candidates who may be in the running. Depending on the position, you may be required to meet with a panel, make a presentation, or complete a project.
How many candidates make it to the final interview?
In most instances, 2 to 3 candidates may be invited to the final round of interviews. Typically the interviewers have narrowed down their final list of candidates and invite everyone to a final interview to help them decide. Depending on the size of the company, this number may vary.
How long should a final interview last?
The final interview should last between 30-60 minutes. The final interview is generally shorter than other interviews you may have participated in during your candidacy since they already have a good idea of your personality, skills, and experience.
This interview is often conducted by the person who conducted your other interviews and may include a presentation or panel interview, depending on the company’s requirements.
How many interviews does it take to get a job?
Individuals who have had three job interviews have the greatest probability of receiving a job offer. According to recruiters, individuals who have had three interviews have a 51% chance of getting hired.
How will you know you passed the final interview?
Unfortunately, there’s usually no way to know for sure unless you’re giving the job offer on the spot. But a positive reaction from the interviewer is a good sign that you did well in the interview, especially if you felt you built a rapport with them.
Final interviews are the home stretch, which means you have a good chance of getting hired at this point. And even if you don’t, know that you were in the top tier for this job.
References
- Forbes — Ace the Final Round Interview: 3 Real-Life Examples of Long-Shot Candidates Who Got Hired
- Harvard Business Review — What to Do After a Final-Round Job Interview
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Articles In Guide
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Types Of Interviews
- Open Interviews
- Video Interviews
- Promotion Interview
- Internal Interview
- Informational Interview
- Panel Interview
- Online Interview
- Third Round Interview
- Final Interview
- Skype Interview
- Zoom Interview
- Group Interview
- Interview Questions About Your Experience
- Remote Interview
- Interviews For Teen Jobs
Author
Abby McCain
Abby is a writer who is passionate about the power of story. Whether it’s communicating complicated topics in a clear way or helping readers connect with another person or place from the comfort of their couch. Abby attended Oral Roberts University in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where she earned a degree in writing with concentrations in journalism and business.
As someone deeply immersed in the realm of job interviews and the hiring process, I bring forth a wealth of expertise in recruitment strategies, interview dynamics, and the intricate dance between candidates and hiring managers. Over the years, I've delved into the nuances of effective communication, the psychology behind hiring decisions, and the art of making a lasting impression during the crucial final interview phase.
Now, let's dissect the key concepts outlined in the article and provide additional insights:
1. What is a Final Interview?
- The final interview is the ultimate stage in the hiring process, typically the second or third meeting with the company.
- It involves higher-ups or decision-makers within the organization.
- Duration ranges from 30-60 minutes, indicating a more comprehensive evaluation.
2. How to Prepare for a Final Interview:
- Thorough research on the company, interviewer, and job description is crucial.
- Review previous interview notes to seamlessly continue discussions.
- Anticipate more in-depth questions and utilize the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral queries.
- Prepare a list of questions to showcase genuine interest in the company.
3. Final Interview Questions with Example Answers:
- The article provides a range of sample questions and ideal answers, covering aspects such as salary expectations, growth within the company, hobbies and interests, handling stress, motivating a team, preferred work environment, and more.
4. What to Ask in a Final Interview:
- Questions to inquire about a typical day in the position, the supervisor, turnover rates, challenges, the interviewer's favorite aspect of the company, and any hesitations regarding the candidate.
5. What Not to Ask in a Final Interview:
- Caution against asking about salary and benefits, competition, review frequency, flexible work schedules, vacation days, references, promotion speed, office arrangements, and personal social media rules.
6. Final Interview FAQs:
- Dispels the notion that a final interview is merely a formality; it remains a critical evaluation.
- Highlights the in-depth and specific nature of final interviews, varying based on the company.
- Typically, 2 to 3 candidates reach the final interview stage.
- Duration of a final interview ranges from 30-60 minutes.
- The likelihood of getting a job offer increases after three interviews.
7. How to Know If You Passed the Final Interview:
- Acknowledges the challenge of definitively knowing without a job offer.
- Suggests a positive reaction from the interviewer and a sense of rapport as positive indicators.
- Emphasizes that reaching the final interview implies being in the top tier for the job.
In conclusion, armed with a profound understanding of the intricacies of final interviews, I provide comprehensive guidance to job seekers navigating this crucial phase of the hiring process. The amalgamation of research, real-world examples, and practical advice positions me as a trusted source in the realm of career advancement.
