What are open interviews? How to prepare and get hired faster

Key takeaways:

• An open interview is a hiring session that allows anyone to attend without an appointment.

• Its main characteristic is immediate, on-the-spot interaction with hiring managers.

• It is increasingly used for high-volume or time-sensitive hiring needs.

• Job seekers can find open interview listings quickly through Jobstreet’s job search tools.

As more job seekers enter the market, many employers are turning to open interviews to fill vacancies quickly and meet high hiring demand. These sessions give job seekers a chance to walk in, meet hiring managers directly and potentially progress faster than through traditional appointments.

This article explains what open interviews are, how they work and how you can approach them with confidence. You will also learn how to easily spot open interview opportunities on Jobstreet.

• What is an open interview?
• Why employers use open interviews?
• Advantages of open interviews for job seekers
• How to prepare for an open interview?
• Mastering the initial impression
• How to answer interview questions confidently?
• How to stand out during open interviews
• What happens after an open interview?
• Where to find open interview opportunities near you?
• Show up prepared, stand out with confidence
• FAQs

What is an open interview?

An open interview is a recruitment format in which employers invite anyone interested in a role to attend an interview within a set time window, usually without an appointment. 

Often called a walk-in interview or walk-in drive, it gives job seekers the chance to meet hiring managers immediately, submit their CVs on the spot, and move straight into a brief conversation about their experience. 

Unlike traditional interviews that require shortlisting and scheduled time slots, open interviews allow job seekers to show up at any time, making the process faster and more accessible for both parties.

This format can take different shapes depending on the employer’s needs. Some sessions involve quick one-to-one discussions, while others may use group activities or informal chats similar to a mini job fair. Most operate on a first-come, first-served basis. 

Why employers use open interviews?

Employers rely on open interviews because they offer a fast and efficient way to meet many job seekers in a short period, especially when roles need to be filled urgently. This format removes time-consuming steps like scheduling individual appointments, allowing hiring managers to speak directly with walk-in applicants and make quick decisions.

Common reasons employers turn to open interviews include:

• High-volume hiring needs: Ideal for filling many positions at once or recruiting quickly during peak periods.

• Frequent use in key sectors: Especially popular in retail, hospitality, customer service, food service, and warehouse or logistics roles.

• Streamlined recruitment: Enables employers to meet and screen multiple applicants in a single session, speeding up shortlisting and follow-ups.

• Immediate assessment: Hiring managers can quickly evaluate communication, attitude, and cultural fit through in-person conversations.

• Access to a wide talent pool: Without appointments or pre-screening, open interviews attract diverse applicants who may not apply online.

Because open interviews allow employers to engage directly with job seekers, they offer more than just operational efficiency. They also support employer branding by creating a positive first impression and helping applicants better understand the job before committing.

Advantages of open interviews for job seekers

Open interviews offer job seekers a fast and accessible way to meet employers, explore opportunities and demonstrate their strengths in person. By removing early screening steps, job seekers can connect directly with decision-makers, gather immediate insights into roles, and gain a clearer sense of their fit. 

This format creates a more open, efficient pathway to employment while giving job seekers several meaningful advantages.

1. Faster hiring and shorter waiting times

Open interviews help job seekers move through the hiring process quickly by providing immediate face time with hiring managers. This format avoids slow screening procedures and increases the chance of receiving a prompt hiring decision.

2. A more relaxed environment to show your true self

Open interviews can feel less formal than traditional interviews, which helps job seekers relax and communicate more naturally. This environment makes it easier for them to showcase genuine confidence, personality and interpersonal skills.

3. A chance to prove adaptability on the spot

Open interviews allow job seekers to demonstrate quick thinking, adaptability and clear communication in real time. This format highlights strengths that may not be obvious from a written CV alone.

4. Quicker feedback on your interview performance

Open interviews often provide fast updates on your status, helping job seekers understand how they performed. This immediate feedback supports better preparation for future opportunities.

5. Better networking potential

Open interviews give job seekers direct access to recruiters, hiring managers and others working in the industry. These interactions can lead to follow-up conversations, referrals or future job opportunities.

6. Stronger visibility and a competitive edge

Attending an open interview shows a job seeker’s initiative and determination, which can set them apart from applicants who submit only online forms. Showing up in person increases visibility and demonstrates commitment.

How to prepare for an open interview?

Preparing well for an open interview helps you make a strong first impression and handle the fast pace confidently. Since these sessions often involve meeting hiring managers on the spot, it is important to organise your materials, understand the role and ensure you arrive ready to present yourself professionally.

1. Research the company before you go

Researching the organisation’s mission, values, and culture helps you understand what the employer expects. This preparation also shows genuine interest, making it easier to tailor your answers to the role.

2. Update and refine your CV

A clear, up-to-date CV makes it easier for hiring managers to quickly understand your skills. Proofread your document and highlight the experience most relevant to the roles offered at the event.

3. Prepare all required documents

Bringing the right documents ensures you can complete the application process smoothly. Most employers expect multiple copies of your CV, identification, references, and any certificates or work samples needed for the job.

4. Dress in clean and professional attire

Choosing the right outfit helps you create a strong first impression. If you are unsure of the company’s dress code, aim for a simple, professional look that appears clean and well-fitted.

5. Plan your journey and arrive early

Checking your travel route in advance helps you avoid delays and arrive with enough time to prepare mentally. Aim to reach the venue five to ten minutes early to stay calm and organised before the interview starts.

Mastering the initial impression

The first few moments of an open interview play a significant role in shaping how hiring managers perceive you. Because these events move quickly, employers often form early impressions based on your presence, demeanour and ability to communicate with confidence. A polished introduction also helps you stand out immediately and sets the tone for the rest of the conversation.

• Always be professional: Treat every staff member respectfully, as your interview begins the moment you step into the venue.

• Non-verbal cues count: Use confident body language, including eye contact, steady posture and a firm handshake.

• Small talk strategy: Engage in simple, relevant small talk that helps build rapport and shows your ease around people.

• Stay on message: Keep two or three key strengths in mind and weave them naturally into your early conversation.

• Avoid appearing flustered: Take a moment to compose yourself before the interview so you appear calm, collected and ready.

How to answer interview questions confidently?

Answering questions confidently during an open interview helps employers quickly understand your strengths, communication style and suitability for the role. Because these conversations are often short, clear and structured responses make a strong impression and show that you are prepared. Focusing on relevance, honesty, and composure will help you stand out in a fast-moving environment.

1. Prepare for common interview questions

Most open interviews include standard questions about your strengths, weaknesses, motivations and interest in the role. Preparing thoughtful answers in advance helps you respond clearly and confidently without feeling rushed.

2. Use the STAR method for behavioural questions

Behavioural questions are designed to understand how you have handled situations in the past. Using the STAR method, which explains the Situation, Task, Action and Result, helps you deliver concise and compelling examples that highlight your problem-solving skills.

3. Address CV gaps and short job stays briefly

If you are asked about employment gaps or short stints, give a simple, honest explanation, supported by a brief follow-up point. Focus on what you learnt or how the experience helped you grow, rather than dwelling on the issue.

4. Highlight your potential and willingness to learn

If you lack direct experience, emphasise your transferable skills, work ethic and ability to learn quickly. Redirecting the conversation to your overall competence helps employers see how you can contribute even without a perfect background.

5. Ask questions that show genuine interest

Ending with thoughtful questions helps you demonstrate curiosity and ambition. Questions about success criteria, team culture or upcoming priorities show that you are thinking about the role and how you can add value.

How to stand out during open interviews

Employers often make quick judgments based on how you carry yourself, how you participate in group settings and how well you adapt to unexpected tasks. Preparing for these realities helps you stay confident and maintain a professional presence from the moment you arrive.

• Show patience and professionalism while waiting: Open interviews often involve queues or long waiting times, so maintaining politeness and a composed attitude helps create a positive early impression. Employers notice job seekers who remain calm and respectful even in crowded situations.

• Participate thoughtfully in group discussions: If the interview includes group activities, focus on active listening, clear contributions, and effective collaboration with others. A balanced approach helps you show confidence without overshadowing other participants.

• Stay focused on your key strengths: Busy environments can be distracting, but keeping your core messages in mind helps you stay consistent. Adjusting your tone or pace if the interviewer seems distracted shows that you are aware, adaptable and able to stay on track.

• Be ready to adapt to quick assessments: Some employers use role plays, simulations or short tasks to assess practical skills on the spot. Approaching these exercises with an open mind and a positive attitude helps you demonstrate flexibility and readiness to learn.

What happens after an open interview?

What happens after an open interview can vary, but staying professional and proactive helps you make the most of any outcome.

• Immediate offer potential: In some fast-paced sectors, hiring managers may decide quickly and offer you a job on the spot if you meet their needs.

• Express gratitude: Before you leave, thank the interviewer for their time to show respect and professionalism.

• Prompt follow-up: Send a short thank-you email within 24 hours to reinforce your interest in the role and highlight your key strengths.

• Reflect and learn: After the interview, review what went well and what you could improve to perform even better in future sessions.

• Be ready for salary talks: Have a realistic salary range in mind if the topic comes up, while recognising that detailed negotiation often happens later.

Where to find open interview opportunities near you?

You can find open interview opportunities on job portals such as Jobstreet, where listings are clearly labelled and easy to filter. Most employers advertising walk-in formats include key details upfront, making it simple to locate events that match your location and job preferences.

Start by typing keywords like “open interview” or “walk-in interview” in Jobstreet’s search bar. This immediately pulls up active postings that feature in-person hiring events.

Next, use the location filter to refine your results. Enter your city or postcode to view open interviews happening nearby. Each listing typically shows the interview date, time, venue, role title and basic requirements at a glance.

For quicker access to urgent or time-sensitive openings, enable job alerts. Scroll to the bottom of the results page and select “Save this search” to receive notifications via email whenever new walk-in opportunities appear.

Show up prepared, stand out with confidence

Open interviews give job seekers a fast and direct way to meet employers, make strong first impressions and move quickly through the hiring process. With the proper preparation, a professional attitude and a clear sense of your strengths, you can handle these high-volume sessions confidently and stand out from others.

Suppose you’re ready to explore new openings or prepare for your next walk-in interview. In that case, Jobstreet’s career resources can help you refine your CV, practise interview techniques and discover opportunities that match your goals.

FAQs

1. What is an open interview, and how does it work?

An open interview is a walk-in hiring session where anyone interested in a job can attend without an appointment. Job seekers arrive within a set time window, submit their CV and speak directly with a hiring manager, often moving through brief interviews or group activities in a single visit.

2. How do I prepare for an open interview to improve my chances?

You can prepare by researching the company, updating your CV, bringing all required documents and dressing professionally. Arriving early, planning your travel route and preparing clear answers to common questions also help you make a strong first impression.

3. Can I get hired on the spot during an open interview?

Yes, many employers make same-day decisions during open interviews, especially in fast-moving industries. If you meet the role requirements and perform well, you may receive an offer immediately or be invited to the next stage shortly after.

4. Do I still need a cover letter for an open interview?

A cover letter is not always required for an open interview, but having a short, well-written version ready can help you introduce yourself professionally. It is helpful if the employer requests additional documents or wants a summary of your interest in the role.