It’s always a welcome sign to be called back for a second interview since you know you have been short-listed for the job. What follows are some second interview do’s and don’ts to help you get the offer.

Do’s

• Even though you have been short-listed it is important to distinguish yourself from other candidates. Indeed, the second interview is where you should highlight your unique value all the more since it is likely you will now be meeting with the hiring manager and, perhaps, others on the department team.
• Try to find out from the human resources department who will be in attendance during the second interview and research each person individually, either via Google or LinkedIn.
• Remember that the second interview will involve more intense questions as the interviewer(s) will delve more deeply into job responsibilities, performance expectations, work culture, along with your past experience and accomplishments. Think about how you can value add to the answers you provided during the first interview. For example, think of additional examples of your accomplishments and what you could contribute to this job based on what the hiring manager has told you. If you have been able to research each interviewer, you can also tailor each response to that person and be sure to maintain eye contact.
• Expect to be asked situational or behavioral questions. In most cases the interviewers will either ask you to either describe a situation in your past experience, or describe what your actions would be in hypothetical situations.
• In preparation for the second interview, review your performance during the first interview, paying particular attention to areas where you had difficulty and plan how you will handle those difficult questions more effectively. Remember that you wouldn’t have been invited to the second interview unless you were able to perform well in the first.
• Perform additional research on the company and, if possible, the department you will be working in. This research includes obtaining comparable salary information for a similar role in other companies within the same industry. Some job search experts suggest that you conduct informational interviews with current employees prior to the second interview to gain an insider perspective. To avoid any conflicts, be sure that the employees you speak with are not the same people who will be interviewing you. Also be sure to update your knowledge with regard to any industry trends or company news by reading business magazine, trade publications, and “Googling” the company name.
• Prepare a list of questions to ask. These questions may be job specific, the management style of your supervisor, company work culture, training you will receive, performance evaluation procedures and professional development opportunities.
• If not made the offer that day, ask about next steps in the process and try to arrange any further meetings before leaving.
• Collect the business card of each interviewer so you may send a thank you letter within 24 hours of the interview.

Don’ts

• Don’t be surprised if during the second interview you meet with several people aside from the hiring manager and department team. For example, you may also meet with senior management (this is especially the case in small companies where you may even meet the owner), additional team members, and the heads of other departments. It is also possible you will be provided a tour of the workplace.
• Don’t neglect the importance of proper interview attire. Even if the department is somewhat casual in dress, you should still wear business attire to the interview.
• Don’t have your cell phone turn to either on or vibrate; in a relatively quiet room even the vibration can seem loud.
• Don’t be overly chatty during the interviews. Provide succinct answers to every question, getting to the point quickly.
• Don’t slouch in your chair or fidget. Maintain an upright posture that shows confidence and interest.
• Don’t forget to make a positive impression on all employees you meet by greeting everyone warmly and with a handshake.
• Don’t be afraid to ask for additional time if the employer makes an offer that day. Two days is usually sufficient to allow you time to review your initial impression, compare the salary and benefit package with what your research has shown and seek the advice of family and friends. Asking for longer period may signal that you are trying to play offers against one another and/or indicate your disinterest in the job.