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A Group Interview Can Be Intimidating

This is an interview conducted by a group of individuals, which may include the supervisor and some subordinates, or a few partners or executives. This type of interview is becoming very popular, especially if the organization has a strong team approach and wants to involve several key executives in the hiring process. A group interview allows co-workers to see how the candidate will fit into the organization and their "group environment."

This type of interview is very stressful for most interviewees, particularly if they are not thoroughly prepared. Questions will be asked continuously from all different angles, which may scatter your concentration and decrease your confidence. It is more difficult to concentrate on the interviewers and read their reactions to responses, the way you can in a one-on-one interview.

The most effective way to get through a panel interview is to demonstrate a calm and "together" disposition. Answer one question at a time - approach the questions as if there were only one person conducting the interview. Make sure you take a breath after each question. If you get stumped, you can buy some time by asking a question yourself or asking the interviewer to repeat the question.

Another type of group interview involves a discussion with a group of fellow job seekers. This type of interview is designed to reveal the leadership capabilities of prospective managers and professional staff when facing the public, co-workers, and superiors. The top candidates are grouped together in an informal, discussion-type interview. A topic is introduced and the interviewer begins the discussion. The objective of the group interview is to see how you interact with others and how you use your knowledge and reasoning to empower others. If you perform well in the group interview, you can expect to be asked back for a more extensive interview.

Either way, it is important to be prepared.