Semi-Structured Interview 101
Also known as hybrid, combined, or moderately structured interviews, semi-structured interviews are a type of interview where candidates are only asked a few preset/predetermined questions while the rest are in a “freestyle” format.
This means that right after the interviewer starts with the formalised list of questions, the rest of the interview questions would be more open-ended, just like in a free-flowing conversation.
It is done so that interviewers are able to gain a more in-depth understanding of you, your traits, your vibe, your thought process, your motivation, and your qualifications by asking follow-up questions (and interacting in general without following a script).
If you are preparing to attend job interviews for the best jobs in Malaysia, here are some tips to navigate semi-structured interviews successfully.
Tips When Attending Semi-Structured Interviews
1. Be Knowledgeable
Firstly, you’d have to go through the common interview questions about yourself, the job scope, and the company. In order to be knowledgeable, research the company and understand its background, its business model, its competition, and the environment in which they’re operating.
Since the rest of the interview would be mainly freestyle and based on following up on your previous answers, you should carefully review the requirements for the job advertisement and think about the examples of expertise, skills, and learnings from these requirements.
That way, not only will you be able to answer the standard interview questions about yourself and the company, but also confidently showcase your suitability by answering all the follow-up questions properly.
2. The Art of Expansion
Follow-up questions are important in a semi-structured interview. Be careful when answering any question as they could lead to new question(s).
Interviewers are always taking notes and looking to include them in subsequent questions for you to clarify certain information. By customising their questions to each previous answer, interviewers are essentially facilitating a more fluid conversation.
If you are applying for a Project Manager role, for example, here are the types of follow-up questions you need to be ready for:
- What are your notable past projects/achievements?
- What are the challenges for said projects?
- How did you overcome the said challenges/weaknesses?
- Who did you collaborate with to ensure your success?
- What are the methods/skills used to ensure that things went smoothly?
- What have you learned, and how will you use it to bring value to this role?
As shown above, each question and answer could lead to relevant questions subsequently. That’s why it’s important for you to master the skill of providing more information and relevant examples to get closer to being your ideal candidate.
3. Keep The Conversation Going
Semi-structured interviews are two-way streets in the sense that participation and contribution from both parties are equally as important to ensure a pleasant interview experience.
Instead of just answering all the questions posed by the interviewers, be sure to prepare some of your burning questions for the interviewer relating to the position, team, company culture, and the value you can bring to the company.
This way, you’d be able to keep the conversation flowing and the interviewer engaged. Plus, it’s a better way for you to gauge if the role is truly suitable for you.
4. Be Friendly
Semi-structured interviews are meant to be friendly and positive. Think of it as a conversation with a potential friend, but more professional and formal.
When it comes to mastering the art of conversing with interviewers, the best way is to practice with a friend or mentor. You can have the usual questions at the start, and proceed with unexpected questions to practice thinking on your feet as well as answering in a professional yet friendly manner.
Another way to be friendly is to follow up with the interviewer later on with a thank-you email. Use the chance to express your gratitude for their time, reinforce your passion for the job role, and most importantly, clarify any information that you felt was lacking during the session.
Final Remarks
Semi-structured interviews are awesome in the sense that the format is not predefined and more conversational. It’s a positive sign that the interviewers would want to spend more time getting to know you, and it’s also a good chance to gauge the vibe of the company/team.
However, be prepared to spend a bit more time for the interview session. Instead of getting bored, try to maintain your interest, energy, level, positive tone, and help them learn more about you.
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