How Many Questions in a 20 Minute Interview?
In a 20-minute interview, the number of questions asked can vary greatly depending on the nature of the interview, the company, and the role being applied for. Typically, interviewers aim to gather essential information about the candidate while also maintaining a conversational pace. Let’s explore the ideal number of questions to ask during a 20-minute interview and how to balance the information-gathering process effectively.
Understanding the Interview Structure
A 20-minute interview is often a preliminary screening, where the primary goal is to assess the candidate’s qualifications, fit, and interest in the role. To achieve this, interviewers may ask between 5 to 8 questions. This range allows for a comprehensive assessment without overwhelming the candidate or deviating from the allotted time.
Types of Questions
The questions asked during a 20-minute interview can be categorized into three main types: behavioral, situational, and technical. Here’s a breakdown of each category and the number of questions typically associated with them:
1. Behavioral Questions: These questions help interviewers understand how candidates have handled past situations. In a 20-minute interview, it’s advisable to ask 1 to 2 behavioral questions. Examples include “Tell me about a time you faced a challenging situation at work and how you resolved it” or “Describe a project you led and what made it successful.”
2. Situational Questions: These questions assess how candidates would handle hypothetical scenarios. In a 20-minute interview, it’s recommended to ask 1 to 2 situational questions. Examples include “If you were assigned a task that required collaboration with a team member who constantly missed deadlines, how would you handle the situation?” or “Imagine you are working on a project with a tight deadline. How do you prioritize tasks to ensure the project’s success?”
3. Technical Questions: These questions are specific to the role and assess the candidate’s technical skills. In a 20-minute interview, it’s best to ask 1 to 2 technical questions. Examples include “What programming languages are you proficient in?” or “How do you approach problem-solving when faced with a complex technical challenge?”
Balancing Time and Information
To ensure a successful 20-minute interview, it’s crucial to balance the number of questions with the time allotted. Here are a few tips to help achieve this:
1. Prepare a list of questions in advance and prioritize them based on importance.
2. Allow time for the candidate to respond to each question, even if it means adjusting the number of questions asked.
3. Be mindful of the time and avoid going off-topic or asking overly complex questions.
4. Encourage the candidate to ask questions as well, which can provide valuable insights into their interest and fit for the role.
Conclusion
In a 20-minute interview, the ideal number of questions falls between 5 to 8, encompassing behavioral, situational, and technical questions. By balancing the time and information gathered, interviewers can make informed decisions about the candidate’s suitability for the role. Remember to prioritize the questions based on importance and allow for a conversational flow to ensure a successful interview experience.
