On-Campus Recruiting: The Second Interview

If the interviewer determines that you do have the proper skills and credentials for the position, you will be invited to the company location for the second interview. You may expect to receive notice of a second interview between two and three weeks after your first interview. Sometimes recruiters will contact you the following day, other times it may be a few weeks; this timing may vary depending on the time of year and company's recruiting procedures.

The second interview is usually at the expense of the company. You should inquire about travel expense policies should you need to travel a great distance to the employer location. Specifically ask, "How do you wish for me to handle travel arrangements and expenses?"

The purpose of the second interview is to determine how well you may fit with the company and the position. You may expect to be asked more questions that will delve into your preferences and motivations, likes and dislikes of past experiences. You may also expect to be asked more "Why?" questions. For example, "Why did you choose Drexel?" or "Why did you decide to major in...?" By asking "Why?" questions, the employer will not only try to determine if you will find the position rewarding, but will also be listening to hear if you make decisions by thoroughly evaluating the question or haphazardly bringing closure to issues or problems.

Prepare yourself for a rigorous visit. Many second interviews will last several hours. You can expect to meet with managers, recent hires from your university, and prospective coworkers during the visit. You energy level should remain high throughout the visit. With each interviewer, keep in mind the agenda and ask questions prior to leaving, if not during the course of the conversation.

The average time between the second interview and a job offer is three weeks, but may vary by employer. Employers interviewing through the On-Campus Recruiting process usually hire in cycles that end in May.