The Average Length of a Job Interview Explained

Job interviews can be nerve-racking. Even if you think you left a solid impression on the hiring manager by talking through your abilities and showing why you’re a strong candidate, you might still feel like the discussion wrapped up faster than expected.

In today’s digital-heavy job market, ideas about interview length are shifting. If you’re more familiar with face-to-face meetings but are now doing phone or video calls, you may be wondering, "How long does an interview usually last?"

Don’t worry. Here we’ll look at the average length of job interviews and touch on new patterns that come with the rise of online video meetings.

In this article, we’ll cover:

• What the length of an interview may say about your chances
• How long phone interviews usually take
• What to expect from video interviews
• The length of group interviews
• Tips to make the most of your interview time

What Can the Length of the Job Interview Mean for Your Chances?

There isn’t one fixed time frame for interviews. Depending on the role and the recruiter’s style, it may only take a short while for them to see if you’re a good match.

Some companies might keep interviews brief, while others could stretch them out over several sessions. This doesn’t necessarily mean one approach is better than the other—it simply depends on the recruiter’s preference.

Here are a few general points about interview timing:

In-Person Interviews Often Run Between 45 and 90 Minutes

Most face-to-face interviews you attend will last about an hour. Within that time, employers can ask about your skills and get a sense of whether you’ll fit into the company.

The length may also depend on the job field. For instance, technical roles may involve longer interviews where you need to prove your ability with detailed tasks or problem-solving.

 

Is a 20 to 30-Minute Interview Too Short?

Not at all. A 20 to 30-minute interview isn’t necessarily a bad sign, and in many cases, it could suggest you’re exactly what they’re looking for.

Think of it like this: a recruiter might speak with dozens of people during the process. If you happen to stand out early with your strengths, they might quickly feel you’re right for the role.

Still, keep in mind that interview times vary across companies. A short meeting could also come down to scheduling constraints or the manager’s availability.

Shorter First-Round Interviews

You may also find that initial interviews are shorter in length. These first meetings usually give both the recruiter and applicant a chance to introduce themselves. The manager may outline the main job tasks and workplace culture, while you get the chance to highlight your key skills.

Later stages may differ in length, particularly if you’re called in for a panel interview with more than one recruiter. Often, the second round lasts longer than the first as the process gets more detailed.

How Long Do Phone Interviews Last?

Phone interviews are generally shorter than in-person meetings, as they serve as the first filter between recruiters and applicants. Recruiters usually run through a list of basic questions to quickly narrow down the pool of candidates.

The main goal of the call is to check whether you’re worth bringing in for the next stage. That’s why most phone interviews only last about 15 to 20 minutes, keeping to a straightforward style of conversation.

How Long Do Video Interviews Last?

Video calls have grown in popularity, especially after the global pandemic. Before then, about 79% of employers preferred first interviews either over the phone or face-to-face. By 2021, that number had shifted, with 86% choosing video interviews as their first step.

If you haven’t done many video interviews, expect them to last around the same time as phone calls. However, there’s more focus on how you present yourself on screen compared to a phone or even in-person meeting.

Here are some useful video interview tips:

Test Your Setup Beforehand

Download the software early, try it out, and check your audio and video. Make sure your internet connection is stable. A microphone and headphones can also improve sound quality.

Fix your Lighting

Good lighting helps you look professional on screen. Place a light in front of you that is bright enough without making you squint or straining your eyes.

Remove Distractions

Avoid a messy background. Turn on your camera ahead of time and see what shows up behind you. Clear away anything that might look untidy or distracting.

How Long Do Group Interviews Take?

Group interviews help recruiters see how well you interact in a team. There are two main types. One includes multiple applicants meeting with one recruiter, while the other involves one applicant being interviewed by several recruiters at once.

The second type is also known as a panel interview. Because more people are involved, these sessions usually take longer, often lasting an hour or more.

Making the Best Use of Interview Time

Practice Common Interview Questions

Prepare by going over a list of frequent interview questions and planning answers for them. Many of these questions repeat across roles, so being ready helps. You could also ask a friend or relative to practice with you.

For a deeper look at common interview questions, you can check out our related post.

Bring Your Own Questions

Come with a set of questions for the recruiter. Doing so shows that you’ve looked into the company and care about the position. It’s also a way to show genuine interest. For inspiration, see the two linked articles below for good examples of what to ask.

Conclusion

Interview lengths can vary, so don’t read too much into whether your meeting was short. A recruiter may keep it brief because they’re already confident you’re right for the role. Likewise, phone interviews are often shorter than in-person sessions.

What matters most is how prepared you are. Going in with solid answers to common questions and your own thoughtful questions for the recruiter will put you in a strong position for success.