The Face-to-Face and Team Interview

Stages of the interview

Once past the telephone filter, the process usually progresses to face-to-face or videoconference interviews with different actors, each with a different agenda.

The interview with the future direct boss will focus on technical competence and problem-solving skills; here you must demonstrate that you can do the job and ease the supervisor's burden.

This is the time to shine with specific knowledge and examples of past achievements.

Subsequently, or in parallel, the interview with teammates or "peers" may occur.

This session is often more difficult than it sounds, as future colleagues assess whether the candidate will fit into the day-to-day dynamics and whether he or she will be collaborative or toxically competitive.

Finally, in smaller companies or for senior positions, there may be an interview with senior management (CEO or Managing Director), where the focus shifts to long-term vision, values and cultural alignment, being a more strategic and less operational conversation.

Non-verbal behavior

In the face-to-face encounter, what is not said is as important as what is said. Nonverbal communication begins from the moment you walk through the door.

A firm handshake (if the healthcare and cultural context permits), direct eye contact, and an upright posture communicate assurance and honesty.

Averting one's gaze or slouching may be interpreted as lack of confidence or evasiveness.

It is crucial to be polite to all staff, from the front desk to security personnel, as they are often asked for their opinion of the candidate's demeanor while waiting.

During the interview, practice active listening, nodding to show understanding and avoiding interruptions.

Nervous gestures such as fiddling with a pen, constantly touching your hair or looking at your watch should be consciously controlled, as they distract the interviewer and denote anxiety.

Informal interviews

Sometimes the final or "cultural adjustment" phase takes place in a less rigid setting, such as a lunch or coffee shop.

Although the atmosphere may seem relaxed, never let your guard down; it is still a professional assessment.

The objective here is to observe the candidate's social skills and manners in a real-life context.

The rules of etiquette should be strictly followed: wait for the host to sit down or start eating, do not talk with your mouth full, and treat waiters with absolute respect, as the treatment of wait staff is a key indicator of a person's character.

As for food choices, it is strategic to ask for simple to eat dishes (avoid pasta with complicated sauces or giant burger