Panel interviews are stressful for most people and typically happen during the hiring phase of a job search. In fact, it’s quite common to be interviewed by a team of people when the position being filled is one that will play a large role in the organization. Smaller companies also may take this approach when the position is one with high interaction with other team members.
Interviewing with groups can be intimidating. Having five people observe you is a different feeling than interviewing with just one person.
Recently, a job seeker I know had been on a two of interviews over a six-week period. Both were panel interviews. He was somewhat unprepared for the number of interviewers he faced and the additional pressure of “being on stage” for a panel of people rather than one interviewer.
After the interviews were over, he started to second guess himself. Had he made a good impression? He talked about what he did right and areas that needed improvement. It turns out, he did a better job than he thought and was invited back for a third interview, this time with individual meetings planned.
So, why do companies do group interviews?
The strategy behind panel interviews usually involves observing how well the job candidate performs under pressure and how they interact with others in an unfamiliar setting.
The key is to acknowledge the group, as well as the person asking the question. Your communication skills definitely will be a factor in how you influence the interviewers. This type of setting also can showcase your listening skills.
The team you will be working with typically is part of the panel interview, and your answers, as well as your non-verbal responses often will create a perception of your ability to work with well with others.
Now, back to the person I mentioned earlier — what did he do right during his panel interviews?
What did he do that moved him to the next step in the hiring process?
• He developed a good rapport with the group.
• He adjusted his communication style to the audience.
• He took notes and jotted down information without taking away from rapport-building activities.
• He maintained good eye contact and was aware of non-verbal behavior, such as fidgeting.
• The tone of voice he used conveyed enthusiasm.
• When asked a question, he focused and took the time to answer, which gave a good impression of his critical thinking skills.
• He acknowledged each member of the panel and made them feel important.
• After the interview, the job seeker sent everyone on the panel a “personalized thank-you” note.
• Results-oriented accomplishments backed up all his answers.
• If he misunderstood a question, he asked clarifying questions.
There were some areas to be improved upon.
• Before the any interview, he will ask the names, titles and roles of people the people who will be interviewing him. If it will be a panel interview, he will ask the interview roles of the team members.
• Being prepared for panel interviews is important, so he will research the company to learn of any problems they are facing, the company culture and industry trends.
• Keeping group interviews in perspective will keep him from being overwhelmed. Looking at them as chance to meet others on the team is a good approach. Now he knows he is interviewing them (as possible coworkers), as well.
Keep your confidence and enthusiasm strong by reminding yourself that an interview invitation happens because they are interested in you. Your experience or background interests them and they perceive you as having value or you would not be called in for an interview.
Building chemistry is important with all interviews in a group session it is magnified. Technical skills may have landed you the first interview, chemistry and how well you related to others will keep interviews moving forward to the offer stage.
Relax and focus on the moment not the size of the group in the room. You are there for a reason.
Have you been on a panel interview lately?
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