Do Employers Interview the Best Candidate First? Insights for Modern Hiring

When it comes to interviews, candidates often wonder whether being the first or last person interviewed offers an advantage. The reality is that interview order depends on a combination of strategies, practical considerations, and AI-driven processes that are shaping modern recruitment. This article explores how employers approach interview scheduling and what it means for candidates in today’s market.

 

How employers decide the interview order

There is no universal rule for whether the strongest candidate is interviewed first or last. Employers, including finance recruiters, hiring managers, and internal talent teams, each have their own approach to scheduling. Often, the order is influenced by practical considerations such as availability, team schedules, or interviewer preferences.

Some employers may prioritise meeting top candidates early to set a benchmark for subsequent interviews. Others may prefer to schedule standout candidates towards the end to leave a lasting impression. Understanding that multiple strategies exist allows candidates to approach the process with confidence.

 

Why some candidates are interviewed first

Interviewing a top candidate first can help employers establish a benchmark for later interviews. By assessing one of the strongest applicants early, hiring managers can better evaluate other candidates’ skills, experience, and suitability for the role.

For candidates, being interviewed first is not a disadvantage. It can provide the opportunity to impress the interviewer and set a high standard against which other candidates are measured.

Tips for candidates interviewed first:

• Communicate your unique skills clearly and concisely.
• Highlight measurable achievements that demonstrate impact.
• Focus on leaving a memorable impression, as this may influence how other candidates are assessed.

 

Why some candidates are interviewed last

Conversely, some employers prefer to schedule the strongest candidates towards the end of the process. This allows interviewers to compare all candidates’ performances and ensures the final impression is memorable.

For candidates, being interviewed last can offer an advantage as employers have a clearer perspective on the qualities and gaps in the candidate pool, making it easier to stand out if you demonstrate strong skills, experience, and cultural fit.

Tips for candidates interviewed last:

• Emphasise differentiators that make you stand out compared with other candidates.
• Reinforce how your experience and cultural fit align with the role.
• Remain confident, as employers will have a clearer picture of the candidate pool.

 

Factors that affect interview scheduling

Several practical factors can influence interview order, including scheduling conflicts with hiring managers or interview panels, internal processes or sequential interview approaches, candidate location or availability, and the use of pre-screening assessments or AI tools.

It is important not to read too much into the interview order. What matters most is preparation and presenting your skills effectively.

 

How AI is shaping modern interviews

Artificial intelligence is playing an increasingly important role in recruitment, including screening CVs, analysing candidate responses, and scheduling interviews. AI-driven processes can shift traditional interview dynamics, as top candidates may be identified earlier, altering the conventional “first or last” advantage. Automated scoring and assessments ensure consistency across candidates while reducing bias in scheduling decisions. Video interviews with AI analytics also give hiring teams insights into engagement, communication, and cultural fit.

For candidates, this evolution emphasises the importance of clear communication, quantifiable achievements, and a strong presentation. While AI can support decision-making, a confident, well-prepared candidate continues to make the strongest impression.

 

Making every interview count

Whether you are interviewed first, last, or somewhere in the middle, success relies on preparation and execution. Focus on articulating your skills clearly, demonstrating measurable results, and conveying cultural fit. Attention to detail, thoughtful answers, and confident body language can leave a lasting impression.

For additional guidance, explore our article on 7 Expert Strategies to Strengthen Your Finance CV to ensure your application is optimised for both recruiters and AI screening tools. You can also browse further insights and career advice in our Industry Insights section.

Every interview is an opportunity to showcase why you are the right candidate. By understanding employer strategies and adapting to AI-driven processes, you can maximise your impact and position yourself for success.

Ready to take the next step? Register your CV with us to be considered for relevant roles or view our current finance opportunities today.