What is a Working Interview? (Definition & Tips)

A working interview is an innovative twist on the traditional job interview process. Rather than simply quizzing a candidate on their skills and experience, companies invite prospective employees to perform tasks directly related to the job they’re applying for. This enables potential employers to assess how well the candidate would fit into the company culture and carry out their day-to-day tasks. Essentially, a working interview combines the evaluation process with a practical, hands-on demonstration of the applicant’s abilities.

This type of interview sets itself apart by offering a more accurate depiction of the candidate’s capabilities and performance under real-world circumstances. In a standard job interview, applicants may respond to questions and scenarios according to their own interpretation, which may not always align with the employer’s expectations. With a working interview, both parties can better understand each other’s work processes and communication styles, enhancing the probability of a successful and long-lasting working relationship.

Additionally, a working interview allows job seekers to directly showcase their skills and knowledge, giving them an opportunity to prove their worth beyond the confines of a resume or interview conversation. This, in turn, can help build confidence in their abilities and offer a more authentic view of their potential in the role. Overall, working interviews present a unique and practical approach to the hiring process, benefiting both employers and candidates alike.

What Is a Working Interview?

A working interview is a practical assessment used by employers to evaluate a candidate’s job skills and abilities in a real work environment. Through this process, employers have the opportunity to witness firsthand how the candidate performs in job-related tasks, communicates with team members, and adheres to company policies.

Purpose of a Working Interview

The main purpose of a working interview is to provide employers with tangible evidence of a candidate’s skills and suitability for a role. It helps them make a more informed decision when selecting the right candidate for the job. This type of interview can be particularly useful in sectors where technical or specialized skills are essential, as the employer can quickly determine whether the candidate meets the requirements.

A working interview can also benefit the candidate, as it allows them to gain a better understanding of the company culture, the job role, and the work environment, which helps them decide whether the position aligns with their career goals and preferences.

Difference Between Traditional Interviews and Working Interviews

Traditional Interviews	Working Interviews
Focus on discussion and verbal communication	Focus on practical application of job-specific skills
Questions mainly centered around past experiences and qualifications	Practical tasks and scenarios related to the job role
Mostly conducted in a formal setting (meeting room, office)	Conducted in the actual work environment (office, workshop)

Traditional interviews consist of a series of questions and answers between the interviewer and the candidate, mainly centered around past experiences, qualifications, and other background information. The interviews are primarily based on verbal communication and are usually conducted in a formal setting.

In contrast, working interviews focus on the practical application of job-specific skills. The candidate is tasked with completing a series of tasks or job scenarios that directly relate to the job role for which they are being considered. Working interviews take place in the actual work environment, which allows the candidate to experience the job conditions and interact with potential coworkers.

Preparing for a Working Interview

Research the Company

Before attending a working interview, take the time to research the company. Get a feel for its mission, values, and work culture. A great place to start is the company’s website, but also consider exploring the company’s LinkedIn page and other online resources. Acquire a solid understanding of the company’s background and work environment, as this will allow you to tailor your responses and behavior to the expectations of the organization.

Understand the Job Description

It’s essential to have a thorough understanding of the job description for the position you are applying for. This includes the required education, qualifications, responsibilities, and expectations.

• Study the job description closely
• Identify the key requirements and qualifications
• Understand the daily tasks and duties of the role

This knowledge will enable you to show how your abilities and experience align with the position, making you a strong candidate during the working interview.

Dress for Success

Appropriate dress is crucial for making a positive first impression during a working interview. Keep the company culture in mind when selecting your attire; research the dress code or observe employees’ outfits on the company’s social media profiles or during any pre-interview visits. An appropriate dress code will vary depending on the industry and work environment, so be attentive to these factors.

During the Working Interview

Tasks and Projects

During a working interview, the candidate is expected to complete specific tasks or projects to showcase their skills and abilities. This may include:

• Tackling a real-world problem related to the job
• Demonstrating their ability to meet deadlines and prioritize tasks
• Presenting their solutions and ideas to a panel or team members

The tasks assigned should be relevant to the role and help evaluate the candidate’s job-specific skillset.

Communication and Collaboration

In a working interview, candidates have the opportunity to showcase their communication and collaboration skills. This may involve:

• Actively participating in team discussions
• Effectively conveying their ideas and thoughts
• Receiving feedback and input from team members

Good communication fosters a positive work environment and helps achieve project objectives.

Following Direction and Autonomy

A successful candidate must strike a balance between following direction and showing autonomy. During the working interview, the candidate should demonstrate:

• Their ability to follow the instructions given
• Flexibility to adapt to changes in scope or direction
• Willingness to take initiative and work independently when necessary

This demonstrates the candidate’s work ethic and adaptability, making them a valuable addition to the team.

Assessing Fit and Success

Assessing Skills and Experience

One key element of a working interview is assessing a candidate’s skills and experience. The hiring manager will provide a set of tasks and responsibilities to help determine if the candidate’s expertise aligns with the role’s requirements. During the interview, the candidate can demonstrate their abilities by:

• Completing relevant tasks or mock projects
• Discussing past experiences and accomplishments
• Showcasing problem-solving and decision-making processes

Evaluating Cultural Fit

A working interview also enables both the hiring manager and candidate to evaluate cultural fit. This involves understanding the candidate’s values and how they align with the company’s mission, as well as their potential to thrive within the team dynamics and workplace culture. Factors to consider include:

• Communication style and adaptability
• Collaboration and teamwork approach
• Willingness to take initiative and contribute ideas

Receiving Feedback

Throughout the working interview, it’s essential for the candidate to receive feedback from the hiring manager and team members. This feedback provides insights into areas where the candidate excels or may need improvement, helping inform the company’s decision-making process. To ensure a well-rounded candidate experience, feedback should encompass:

• Task performance and quality of work
• Cultural fit and alignment with team dynamics
• Areas for potential growth and development

Demonstrating Enthusiasm

Finally, a working interview allows the candidate to demonstrate their enthusiasm for the role and company. By engaging in conversations about the company’s mission and values, and showcasing a proactive approach to tasks and responsibilities, the candidate can display their genuine interest in the position, contributing to a successful working interview experience.

Compensation and Legal Considerations

Pay and Independent Contractor Status

During a working interview, candidates may be paid or unpaid, depending on the employer and the nature of the job. In some cases, they may receive a stipend or a flat rate, while in others, they may be paid hourly. The duration of the working interview may influence the pay structure as well.

If a candidate is considered an independent contractor during the working interview, they need to be aware of their responsibilities for taxes and benefits. Employers should provide a clear distinction between employee and independent contractor statuses to avoid any misunderstandings.

Legal Requirements and Minimum Wage

It is crucial for employers to understand the legal requirements for conducting working interviews. To ensure compliance with labor laws, it is generally recommended to pay candidates for their time during the working interview. This helps avoid potential issues like wage and hour disputes. In the United States, employers must comply with federal and state minimum wage laws, even during working interviews. Employers should also be aware of any local ordinances that may impact working interviews.

Alternatives to Working Interviews

While working interviews can be a valuable tool for assessing a candidate’s skills and fit for a position, there are alternatives to consider:

• Skill assessments: Different tests or exercises to evaluate the candidate’s knowledge and expertise in specific tasks or subject areas.
• Short-term assignments: Providing candidates with temporary tasks or projects to complete, either on-site or remotely, can give employers more time to evaluate their work and suitability for the role.
• Trial periods with clear expectations: Formalizing the trial period by setting clear expectations and goals can help maintain a fair and structured process.

In conclusion, employers should familiarize themselves with the legal and compensation aspects of working interviews to ensure a fair and effective hiring process.

Tips and Best Practices

Working Interview Tips for Candidates

A working interview allows you to showcase your skills and abilities in a real-life work scenario. Here are some tips to help you make the most of this opportunity:

• Prepare: Research the company and understand its culture, values, and needs. Sending a well-written cover letter when applying is also crucial to make a good first impression.
• Be mindful of your personality: Employers look for candidates that are a good cultural fit. Show genuine enthusiasm for the position and demonstrate a positive, can-do attitude throughout the interview.
• Confidence and body language: Present yourself confidently and maintain a professional posture. Make eye contact, speak clearly, and engage with your interviewers.
• Ask questions: Clarify expectations and responsibilities with your potential employer to understand your role during the interview.
• Stay focused: Remain focused and enthusiastic throughout the working interview. This reflects your determination and ability to adapt to the company’s environment and culture.
• Follow-up: After the interview, send a thank-you email to express gratitude and reaffirm your interest in the position.

Working Interview Tips for Employers

As an employer, using a working interview can be an effective way to assess a candidate’s skills, attitude, and cultural fit. The following tips can help you structure a successful working interview:

• Clear expectations: Provide detailed information about the working interview process, including duration, tasks, and goals, so the candidate can be well-prepared.
• Select appropriate tasks: Assign tasks that are relevant to the position and allow the candidate to showcase their skills effectively. This may include training exercises or actual work assignments.
• Provide support: Assign a knowledgeable staff member to guide and support the candidate during the interview. This can help the candidate better understand the expectations and work environment.
• Monitor the interview: Observe the candidate’s performance, attitude, and interaction with your team members. Assess their ability to adapt and contribute to your company culture.
• Evaluate: Collect feedback from staff involved in the working interview and consider the candidate’s overall performance. Use this information to make an informed decision about whether the candidate is a good fit for your organization.

Conclusion and Next Steps

A working interview is an effective method to assess a candidate’s suitability for a role in the hiring process. It allows potential employers to observe the candidate’s skills, and the candidate to understand their potential duties better. The interview process not only evaluates the candidate’s technical skills but also their ability to fit into the workplace culture.

During a working interview, both employers and candidates should clearly communicate their expectations in terms of responsibilities and desired outcomes. This helps in understanding how a candidate can contribute to the organization and perform their duties effectively.

• Employers: To improve the hiring decision, offer feedback and support throughout the working interview process. Prepare a list of tasks that reflect the core duties of the position, and make sure staff members are available for assistance when needed.
• Candidates: Show initiative, ask questions, and adapt to the workplace environment as best as you can. Showcasing your hard and soft skills will increase the chances of receiving a job offer.

After the working interview, employers should reflect upon the candidate’s performance and make a decision based on their performance, expertise, and fit within the company. Candidates should follow up after the working interview by sending a thank-you email and addressing any remaining questions or concerns about the role or company.

In conclusion, a working interview can be a valuable tool in the hiring process, providing insight into a candidate’s suitability for a role. It helps streamline the interview process, and enables both parties to make a well-informed decision about the professional relationship moving forward.