Glossary of Terms
Interview Types
Behavioral Interview Interview format focused on past experiences. Questions begin with "Tell me about a time when..." Past behavior is used to predict future performance.
Phone Screen Initial interview, usually with a recruiter, to assess basic qualifications and fit before investing in full interviews.
Panel Interview Interview with multiple interviewers simultaneously. Often used for senior roles.
Technical Interview Interview focused on demonstrating specific skills — coding, analysis, design, etc. May include live exercises.
Case Interview Problem-solving interview common in consulting and product roles. Candidate works through a business problem out loud.
Final Round Last stage of interviews, often with senior leaders. Focus on fit, culture, and final assessment.
Interview Methods
STAR Method Framework for answering behavioral questions: Situation, Task, Action, Result.
CAR Method Alternative framework: Context, Action, Result. Similar to STAR.
Competency-Based Interview Interview structured around specific competencies the role requires. Each question targets a particular skill.
People in the Process
Hiring Manager The person who will directly manage the hired candidate. Often makes the final decision.
Recruiter Internal or external person managing the hiring process. Coordinates interviews, handles logistics.
HR Representative Human Resources staff involved in hiring. May conduct initial screens and handle offer details.
Interview Panel Group of interviewers who collectively assess candidates.
Interview Components
Job Description Document outlining the role's responsibilities, requirements, and qualifications.
Culture Fit Assessment of whether a candidate's values and working style align with the organization's.
Take-Home Assignment Work sample requested between interview stages. Demonstrates skills in realistic conditions.
References People who can vouch for your work and character. Contacted before final offers.
Background Check Verification of employment history, education, and sometimes criminal records.
Compensation Terms
Base Salary Fixed annual pay before bonuses and other compensation.
Total Compensation All compensation including salary, bonuses, equity, and benefits.
Signing Bonus One-time payment upon accepting an offer.
Equity/Stock Options Ownership stake in the company, often with a vesting schedule.
Vesting Schedule by which you gain ownership of granted equity. Common: 4-year vesting with 1-year cliff.
Benefits Non-salary compensation: health insurance, retirement plans, PTO, etc.
Process Terms
Pipeline The group of candidates being considered for a role.
Offer Letter Formal document extending a job offer with terms and conditions.
Counteroffer Response to an initial offer proposing different terms.
At-Will Employment Employment that can be ended by either party at any time (standard in most U.S. states).
Non-Compete Agreement restricting where you can work after leaving a company.
Notice Period Time required between resignation and departure.
Common Phrases
"Tell me about yourself" Open-ended prompt requesting your professional summary and career narrative.
"Walk me through your resume" Request to explain your career history chronologically.
"Why should we hire you?" Request to summarize your value proposition and fit for the role.
"Do you have any questions for us?" Opportunity to ask questions; expected to have thoughtful ones prepared.
"We'll be in touch" Standard closing that doesn't indicate outcome. Follow up if you don't hear back.
Feedback and Outcome Terms
Ghosting When a company stops responding to a candidate without explanation.
Rejection Decision not to move forward with a candidate.
Offer Pending Period between verbal offer and formal written offer.
Contingent Offer Offer dependent on passing background check or other verification.
Exploding Offer Offer with a very short deadline to accept. Sometimes negotiable.
Red Flags
High Turnover Frequent departures from a team or company. May indicate problems.
Vague Job Description Unclear role expectations. May signal disorganization.
Unprofessional Process Disrespectful treatment during interviews. Often reflects company culture.
Pressure Tactics Aggressive pressure to accept quickly without time to decide.