How Long Do Job Interviews Go For?
You’ve received news that you have been successful in securing a job interview – congratulations! Most employers won’t tell you how long they anticipate the interview to last, but you want to prepare, and knowing the likely duration of the interview ahead of time will help settle your nerves.
However, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer for interview duration. In fact, I’ve been involved in recruitment panels where some interviews were allocated as little as 20 minutes, and others were scheduled for up to an hour. The length of your interview will vary depending on several factors.
Factors Affecting Interview Length
The type of role, the level of seniority, the number of qualified candidates in the pool, and even the employer’s interview structure all play a part in determining how long your interview will last. Here's an overview of the different types of interviews and what you can typically expect.
Phone Interviews
Phone interviews are commonly used as a first step to gauge a candidate’s interest in the role, their understanding of the company, and their knowledge of the industry. These types of interviews may serve as a pre-screening tool, others will be scheduled as a formal interview. Some phone interviews can be very brief, lasting as little as 10 minutes, while others may take longer, up to 40 minutes, especially if the recruiter is asking more in-depth questions about your skillset and background.
Generally speaking, a phone interview serves as a way for the recruiter or hiring manager to filter out candidates before scheduling in-person meetings. The shorter the phone interview, the more likely it’s for a basic screening.
In-Person Interviews
For in-person interviews, you can expect a broader range of durations, typically lasting anywhere between 30 minutes to 90 minutes. However, the interview could be shorter or longer depending on the complexity of the role and the number of interviewers involved. It’s also possible for interviews to run for a half or full day when you’re asked to perform job-related tasks or meet with multiple people.
Sometimes, in-person interviews may be broken into segments. You could start with an initial interview with a manager, followed by a round with potential colleagues or senior staff members, and conclude with a final meeting with HR. While this could stretch the overall time of the interview, each individual interview may still be kept to 30–60 minutes.
For more information on the differences between phone and in-person interviews, check out this Indeed article here: Phone Interviews vs. In-Person Interviews (Pros and Cons) | Indeed.com
Group Interviews
Group interviews, where multiple candidates meet with hiring managers at the same time, are often shorter, usually lasting about an hour. This format allows recruiters to observe how candidates interact with one another, and how well they handle teamwork dynamics and competition.
If you’re participating in a group interview, be sure to demonstrate how well you collaborate with others but don’t be afraid to speak up, as your communication skills and ability to contribute to group discussions will be a key focus.
No Hard and Fast Rule
While you might have an idea of how long an interview could last, there is no strict rule for interview duration. As I mentioned from my experience, I’ve been on recruitment panels where interviews were only allocated 20 minutes, and others where we scheduled an hour. Every organisation has its own practices, and the structure of the interview may vary depending on the factors at play.
The type of job, the seniority level, the number of candidates being considered, and even the interview format (panel vs. one-on-one) can all influence how long the interview will take. For example, an entry-level or trade-based position might have a shorter interview because the expectations are more straightforward, whereas a senior role or government role may involve deeper conversations about leadership, vision, and company fit, which can extend the interview length.
How to Maximise Your Interview Time
Regardless of the interview duration, it’s essential to be prepared and make the most of your time with the interviewer. Here are some tips to help you stay on track:
Prepare for Common Questions: Make sure you’re ready to answer common interview questions, most often situational and behavioural questions relating to your experience, as well as any specific to the role. Preparation is key to ensuring you provide clear, concise answers without going off-topic. (Tip: All the clues are in the job ad for what you may be asked. Make sure you have specific examples from your experience relating to the different requirements and essential criteria for the role)
Have Your Questions Ready: Most interviews end with an opportunity for you to ask questions. Preparing a few thoughtful questions shows that you’re genuinely interested in the company and the role, while also giving you valuable insights into the job. Don’t go overboard here though and the interviewer will likely have other candidates to meet with.
Stay Focused: It’s easy to get off track when you’re discussing your experience or connecting with the interviewer. Keep your answers relevant to the role to make the most of the limited time.
Gauge the Flow: If the interview is moving quickly, don’t feel the need to fill the silence with extra information. Trust that you have prepared thoroughly and the interviewer is getting the details they need. Make sure you allow the conversation to flow naturally.
While the duration of interviews can vary, understanding the factors that influence interview length can help you manage expectations, prepare more thoroughly and calm your nerves. Whether it’s a quick phone screening or an in-depth interview, the key is to be prepared, stay on point, and make a strong impression in the time you’re given. Regardless of the duration, your ability to clearly communicate your skills and experience, as well as the confidence in which you convey them, are what will leave a strong and lasting impact.
If you need help preparing for your next interview or crafting a standout resume, TLW Resume Services is here to support you. Work with a professional resume writer to boost your confidence and increase your chances of landing your dream job.