Rather than a face-to-face, sit-down interview, many businesses are now shaking things up and looking at alternative ways to test their candidates. Whether it’s a phone interview, video conference, or scenario-based questions, alternative interviews can be intimidating for job seekers. With the right preparation, however, you can easily overcome these challenges and make a great impression. Let’s take a look at the various types of alternative job interviews, useful tips on how to prepare for them, and which strategies you could use to ace the interview.

1. Phone interviews

Phone interviews are one of the most common alternative job interviews. To make sure you’re prepared for a successful phone interview, make sure to write down a list of questions and answers that you’d like to ask and answer. It’s also important to research the company and the position you’re applying for. Preparing for a phone interview is just as important as a traditional in-person interview. However, since your interviewer cannot see you, you may have to work on delivering your best phone etiquette.

For example, your tone of voice is especially important during a phone interview. Speak clearly and confidently and make sure to pause and think before answering questions. Make sure to answer each question completely but don’t ramble. Phone interview questions can range from common, in-person job interview questions such as “Why did you apply for this post?” and “What are your strengths?”, to technical questions about the job. Additionally, you may be asked to explain a recent project or provide a solution to a problem. Be prepared to answer any questions that come your way. With the right preparation and mindset, you can easily ace a phone interview.

2. Situational scenarios

A situational interview is another popular alternative job interview. During the interview, you’ll be asked to describe how you would handle different scenarios in the workplace. After you have started looking at job boards and applied for positions, some interviews, or even application processes, might have situational questions for you to answer and complete. To prepare for a situational interview, you could always look up some common questions and practice answering them with a friend or family member. When answering questions, be sure to provide a detailed response and explain how you would use your skills to solve the problem.

It’s also important to stay calm and be confident in your answers. When answering questions, talk about the steps you would take to come up with a solution, rather than simply stating a solution. Make sure to provide examples of times when you’ve successfully handled similar situations in the past. With the right preparation and practice, you can easily ace a situational interview.

3. Surprise / Quirky questions

Questions that are random, a surprise, or even a bit quirky, are becoming more and more common in job interviews. These questions can be anything from “What would you do if you were a superhero?” to “What would you do if you were a tree?” The key to answering surprise and quirky questions is to think outside the box and show your creativity.

When answering these questions, think about what skills or attributes the employer may be looking for. For example, if you’re asked a question about being a tree, you could talk about how you would take advantage of different opportunities and provide a unique perspective. Be sure to also provide examples of how you’ve used creative thinking in the past. Answering creative questions like this with thoughtfulness and creativity can help you stand out from the crowd.

4. On the job monitoring / trial period

On-the-job monitoring or trial periods can also be an alternative phase to the hiring process for some companies. During this type of interview, you might be asked to complete tasks or assignments while the employer/interviewer observes your performance. To prepare for this type of interview, make sure to familiarise yourself with the job requirements and the company’s operations. Additionally, practise the tasks or assignments you’ll be asked to complete.

When completing the tasks or assignments, focus on demonstrating your skills and knowledge. Be sure to ask questions if you need clarification and take initiative. Be sure to show your enthusiasm and positive attitude. With the right preparation and performance, you can easily ace an on-the-job monitoring or trial period interview.