How Long Do Job Interviews Last?

Written by Coursera Staff • Updated on

The length of a job interview will often depend on the stage, and can further depend on career level, role, and industry. Learn more about how long each type of job interview lasts.

[Featured Image] A person wearing a gray blazer and a black turtleneck is shaking hands with their job interviewer across a desk and wondering how long interviews last.

Key takeaways

Job interviews can vary in length and span several rounds.

  • The average interview lasts 30 to 60 minutes.

  • The interview length can vary based on factors such as the interview format (phone, video, in-person), the role you’re applying for, and the stage in the hiring process.

  • You can make the most of your interview time by preparing thoroughly, focusing on your skills, arriving on time, and closing on a positive note.

Learn more about how interview durations vary based on the types of interviews and the hiring process. If you’re ready to start building in-demand skills, consider enrolling in the Google AI Professional Certificate.

How long do interviews last?

Increasingly, an interview process involves multiple rounds, and each of those rounds can be a different length.

Typical duration:

  • 15 minutes: Early-stage recruiter calls or part-time job interviews

  • 30 minutes: First-round interviews with hiring managers

  • 45 minutes to one hour: In-person interviews or detailed online/phone interviews

  • 60 minutes or longer: Technical, group, or panel interviews

The time your job interview takes could reflect where you are in the hiring process. Typically, earlier-stage interviews with a recruiter or human resources rep are shorter. The interview time could also vary depending on whether it’s in person, online, with a group, or in another format. When considering how long your interview should last, ensure it’s in the context of the interview format. For example, a Zoom interview will likely be shorter than a panel interview. 

15 minutes

When interviewing with a recruiter, a 15- or 30-minute call is average. These interviews often begin the hiring process and are an opportunity for a recruiter to learn more about how your experience aligns with the open role. Based on the conversation, they'll recommend moving you forward in the process.

Also, if you’re applying for a part-time job, you might only expect a 15-minute interview.

30 minutes

First-round interviews with a hiring manager can last 30 minutes. This gives them enough time to determine whether you're a good fit for a role and get to know you better personally and professionally. The hiring manager may have a full day booked for interviewing candidates to determine which individuals they will advance to in-person or group interviews, which typically take longer.

45 minutes

When you're applying for an advanced role, or have a later-stage interview with a company leader, you can expect to have a longer interview around the 45-minute mark. This also goes for panel interviews, where you're expected to meet with more than one employee.

60 minutes

Technical interviews also often last an hour or more. These are interviews for positions like engineers or software developers that may test your technical skills and knowledge. 

Group interviews can also last for an hour or longer. This is when an employer gathers several job candidates together to interview simultaneously. Not only does it allow them to learn more about your experience and education, but it also allows them to see how you communicate and interact with others and test essential workplace skills. 

What are five common interview mistakes?

You can prepare for your interview by learning some common mistakes people make—and how to avoid them: 

1. Arriving too late or too early: It’s important to be punctual, showing that you pay attention to detail and are present when you say you will be.

2. Not doing research ahead of time: You want to research the company and job position before the interview. This shows you care about the role and have initiative.

3. Forgetting to ask questions: Prepare questions ahead of time to show that you care about the role and have a genuine interest in the position and what it entails.

4. Being overly personal: Talking briefly about your personal life and hobbies can be okay, but oversharing can come off as inappropriate.

5. Boasting: Though it is important to be confident, overselling yourself can come off as arrogant, and it’s better to use fact-based statements to showcase your achievements instead.

How to make the most of your interview time

Whatever the length of your interview, you’ll want to do your best in the time allotted. You can make a positive impression, no matter the type of interview or time spent, by following these best practices:

  • Find out what to expect: With so many types of interviews, it’s essential to ask about the format so you know what to expect and can prepare accordingly. You can also look online on job sites to find sample questions others have fielded for similar roles at that company.

  • Arrive on time: Aim to arrive 10 to 15 minutes before your in-person interview’s start time. For online interviews, ensure you are punctual, even if that means logging into a Zoom room five minutes early. This creates a positive first impression and gives you the entire available time to make your pitch.

  • Focus: Emphasize your skills, experience, and ability to learn. If you’re having a phone or online interview, take the call or your computer to a distraction-free setting to help you stay on track.

  • Prepare questions: Expect to ask the interviewer any questions you may have. Prepare a short list of questions in advance to ensure you’re ready. A good question can help demonstrate you’ve done your research and genuinely care about the position. 

  • Close positively: This is your final chance to make an impression. Thank the interviewer by name. Reiterate your interest in the position and reinforce that you can do the job well. Emphasize the contribution you can make to the company overall.

Maximize your interview success with free resources

Get insights into in-demand skills, gain resume and interview tips, and explore professional guidance when you browse our Career Resource Hub. You can also check out these free resources to help you prepare for job interviews as you look to start a new career:

Whether you want to develop a new skill, get comfortable with an in-demand technology, or advance your abilities, keep growing with a Coursera Plus subscription. You’ll get access to over 10,000 flexible courses. 

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