What is a 'casual' job interview?

sdavi3680

I have an interview tomorrow for a voluntary position. On the email they said it was a casual job interview. How is that different to a normal interview, or is it the same and I'm reading too much in to it? Even though it's voluntary, I will still be competing against others for the position and it was an advertised position with normal application procedures. I'm just wondering what to expect.

olly300

It doesn't mean anything.

Just turn up smart and be prepared to take your jacket off if you feel over dressed.

Andy_L

Depends on the punctuation.

its either a "relaxed interview" or its an interview for a "casual job" ie you're not a full time 9-5 worker but they bring you in as and when they need you.

"eats, shoots & leaves" and all that

book12

I had one of these 'casual' job interviews. It lasted about 10 minutes.

They ask questions related to yourself, what you've been doing lately, what skills you have, do you know this and that, etc... It's not like the typical questions like why do you want to work for us, where do you see yourself in 5 years time, what are you strengths/weaknesses, etc...

NattyVee

A casual interview is like a wolf in sheep's clothing.

Go as you normally would, but dress smartly rather than going down the formal suit route. Be prepared for the same questions as normal.

Usually they just say 'casual' in order to relax you, but they'll still have expectations so be prepared, you're still being assessed for suitability.

calebdylan

in general, casual interview's will ask why you want to work there, if you are good with communicating and presentation,if there are budgets if you can make them, and generally want to see if you are a pleasant person. so just be really friendly and confident and that should do a lot!

thor

calebdylan wrote: »

in general, casual interview's will ask why you want to work there, if you are good with communicating and presentation

Surely asking about being good at communication and presentation depends on the job you are applying for? Teaching or marketing - yes but driving or computer operator -no.

olly300

NattyVee wrote: »

A casual interview is like a wolf in sheep's clothing.

Go as you normally would, but dress smartly rather than going down the formal suit route. Be prepared for the same questions as normal.

Usually they just say 'casual' in order to relax you, but they'll still have expectations so be prepared, you're still being assessed for suitability.

I had a casual interview for the role I'm currently doing.

I turned up in a suit, and the guy interviewing me was more dressed up than I was.

The only thing casual about it was the questions weren't that in depth. They were more sell yourself to me.

angel.cake_2

olly300 wrote: »

It doesn't mean anything.

Just turn up smart and be prepared to take your jacket off if you feel over dressed.

I completely agree. An interview is NEVER casual. First impressions mean everything.

I imagine they mean 'informal' rather than casual, which just means that it is more likely to be just one person rather than a 'board' of 2 or more interviewers.

Good luck :beer: