How Long Should an Interview Last? A Recruiter’s Perspective
When preparing for an interview—whether as a candidate or a recruiter—one of the most common questions is: How long should an interview last? The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The ideal length depends on the type of role, the complexity of responsibilities, and the stage of the recruitment process.
In industries such as financial services recruitment, interviews can range from 30 minutes for initial screenings to over an hour for final-stage assessments. If you’re applying for roles like mortgage advisor jobs, expect a structured process where recruiters need enough time to assess both your technical knowledge and your ability to build trust with clients.
Why Interview Length Matters in Recruitment
Interview duration isn’t just about time; it’s about depth. For a recruitment agency or headhunter, the aim is to strike the right balance: too short, and you risk missing key details; too long, and both parties may feel drained.
When recruiting for roles in mortgage adviser recruitment or mortgage broker recruitment, the conversation often extends beyond qualifications. Candidates are assessed on their ability to explain complex products such as insurance, protection policies, and different types of mortgage solutions in clear, client-friendly language. This naturally requires more discussion than a straightforward technical role.
Stages and Timing
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Initial Screening (15–30 minutes)
Often led by a recruiter, this call ensures the candidate meets basic criteria and understands the role. In financial services, this might include checking compliance requirements or gauging prior experience in mortgage or insurance sales.
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First Interview (45–60 minutes)
This stage usually dives deeper into skills, motivations, and cultural fit. For mortgage adviser recruitment, candidates may be asked how they handle objections, cross-sell protection products, or maintain long-term client relationships.
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Final Interview (60–90 minutes)
Employers often want to test real-world scenarios. A candidate for a mortgage advisor job might be asked to role-play with a client seeking both a mortgage and insurance solution. Here, the extended time allows recruiters and hiring managers to assess communication, compliance awareness, and commercial acumen.
The Recruiter’s Role in Managing Time
For professionals working in recruitment agencies or specialising in financial services recruitment, keeping interviews purposeful is essential. The recruiter must respect the candidate’s time while ensuring sufficient time is spent to make a confident hiring recommendation. Skilled recruiters in mortgage broker recruitment know that investing more time upfront leads to better long-term hires—people who can manage both technical expertise and client trust.
Final Thoughts
So, how long should an interview last? On average, 45 to 60 minutes is a good benchmark for most financial services roles. However, for complex positions like mortgage advisor jobs, it’s not unusual for interviews to last longer. Ultimately, the goal is not to watch the clock but to create a conversation that reveals whether the candidate is truly the right fit.
Whether you’re a candidate, a recruiter, or a headhunter, remember: the best interviews strike the perfect balance between efficiency and depth. In fields like mortgage adviser recruitment or financial services recruitment, taking the extra time can make all the difference in securing top talent.