How was your first group interview? I bet you were surprised when you realized it wasn’t going to be a one-on-one section. Did you get hired? If you didn’t then you should read this article on group interview tips.
But If you did, cheers to the job that pays the bills.
I was once looking for a job, and I had my fair share of interview surprises. As I remember, I got hired In of those interviews. My story…
Almost two years ago I walked into the lobby of (the WSF) World Scholarship Forum for an interview as a content writer. Moments later, I was ushered into a room and as I walked in, I had eight eye sockets fixed on me.
Right then and there, I realized that my interview was going to be a group interview—a panel group interview.
The good news is, I aced it! If I didn’t I wouldn’t be writing about it now In an attempt to share group Interview tips.
I had to face four different people at the same time and of course, had to answer a bunch of questions. While I went through a panel group interview, there’s another type of group interview – group interviews and group activities.
Whichever one you might find yourself In the future, the group interview tips I’m going to share will help you ace it.
So sit back and read through. Meanwhile, take a cursory look at our table of content for an overview of this article.
Table of contents
What Is a Group Interview?
When an employee or a group of employees interviews numerous candidates at the same time, or when a group of employees forms a panel to interview one candidate, it is referred to as a group interview.
Employers typically conduct both sorts of group interviews in conference rooms to mimic a meeting or team project.
There has been an argument that these types of interviews are usually conducted in an attempt to utilize time and resources efficiently and effectively. While this might be true for group activities, group interviews are not the same as panel group interviews.
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Types Of Group Interviews
There are two types of group interviews. They are Panel group interviews and Group interviews.
Group Interview
As I said before ” A group interview is a meeting style involving several candidates and one interviewer that is frequently utilized when employers need to fill multiple positions quickly.
In businesses including food service, retail, and hospitality, this interview approach is common. If you’re looking for a seasonal retail job over the holidays, for example, you’ll almost certainly be requested to participate in a group interview so that they can swiftly fill positions.
Panel Group Interview
A panel interview is a format in which numerous interviewers and one candidate meet. Panel interviews are commonly used to gather in-depth information about a candidate from a variety of perspectives in preparation for a key or competitive position.
After a phone screen or initial interview, you may be requested to attend a panel interview. Each interviewer will ask questions that are relevant to their work at the organization and are based on their personal experiences. The panel is usually made up of members of the teams with which you will be working in the position.
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Why Do Organizations Use Group Interviews?
A group interview may be used instead of a one-on-one interview for a variety of reasons. Employers may choose to conduct a group interview with numerous candidates or a panel interview with one candidate and several interviewers, depending on their objectives.
Companies are turning to group interviews as a cost- and time-effective screening strategy for finding the best candidate for the job.
It’s often more effective to chat with a group of up to a dozen candidates at once rather than spending an hour with each one individually.
Before narrowing down the shortlist of applicants for a one-on-one encounter, interviewers can use group interviews to simulate a work setting, allowing them to see how prospects interact with and collaborate with others.
How To Prepare For Group Interviews
Bearing In mind that you can’t say how your next Interview might be, It’s best to prepare for the worst-case scenario while hoping g for the best.
Below are some of the things you should do while preparing for a group Interview.
#1. Get There On Time
Arriving early gives you time to calm your nerves while waiting for the interviewers. It won’t be nice to be rushed Into the Interview room just minutes before your arrival. You need to get a lay of the land and you can only do it when you get there early.
Getting there early also helps you get acquainted with the other applicants. You get to build a certain rapport with them, just in case you will be required to do a group task.
If you encounter such. knowing other applicants by name will help you all work better together. Additionally. It will reinforce your Interpersonal skills.
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#2. Rehearse an Introduction
Most group interviews if not all start with the Interviewers asking everyone to Introduce themselves (particularly the applicants), If this happens you should be ready.
You need to come off as confident and precise, and you can achieve this when you rehearse your Introduction. Highlight your skills and experience, but most importantly, keep it short and straight to the point.
#3. Research the Company
Carrying out some background research on the company you wish to work with is a necessary step you must take. This will help you tailor your responses to the company, especially In a group Interview.
This will also help you understand the Industry they are in and as such help, you prepare properly.
#4. You Must Speak Confidently, Therefore Practice How To
It’s easy to fall into undesirable habits in a stressful setting, such as trailing off in the middle of a phrase or punctuating sentences with “you know” or “like.” Be aware of your tone of voice, and if you’re hesitant, role plays a group interview with a few buddies to gain confidence.
#5. Listen
You must listen carefully to understand what they are saying and know how best to respond or carry out the task if it’s an instruction.
Focus on what the folks you’re speaking with are genuinely saying to improve your listening skills. Pay attention when someone introduces oneself, for example, to their name and relevant background talents.
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#6. Prepare Your Own Questions
You will almost certainly be allowed to ask questions at the end of a group interview, just like you would in a one-on-one interview.
Asking thoughtful, pertinent questions can help you stay on the interviewer’s mind. However, don’t get into too much depth at this point, and don’t ask about pay.
Tips For Group Interview
Here are some tips that should see you through a group interview:
#1. Be Composed As a Professional That You Are
Although seeing other candidates gathering for the interview may surprise you, keep your calm and don’t let it show. You can expect plenty of surprises on the job, and you should be able to demonstrate that you can manage any circumstance with professionalism.
#2. Manage Ideas
When others are speaking in a group interview, do not aggressively intervene; instead, jot down any brilliant ideas that come to mind. That way, your moment of genius will not be forgotten.
#3. Listen To Others
Be open-minded to listen to other people’s opinions about any issue being discussed or any task expected to be completed as a group.
If you dismiss other people’s opinions, it may indicate that you’d be a difficult colleague to work with.
It may seem counterintuitive, but acknowledging the opinions of other candidates and either building on their ideas or explaining why you would suggest a different option will demonstrate your interpersonal skills.
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#4. Be Conscious Of Your Body Language
Our body language can reveal a lot about how we feel or think. The problem is that we are frequently ignorant of the messages we send out.
Tightly folded arms, fist-thumping a desk, and reclining or slouching in a chair can all indicate anger, arrogance, or power, none of which attributes a hiring manager is searching for.
As a result, it’s critical to pay attention to your body language. Avoid pointing or giggling, and maintain a professional and alert demeanor.
Conclusion
Group interviews are usually sudden, and the best way to get past them is to prepare!!
This article has discussed tips to get you through group interviews and how best to prepare for them. We hope they prove to be helpful.
References
- www.roberthalf.com.– How to prepare for a group interview in Hong Kong
- Indeed.com – Group Job Interview: What It Is and How To Succeed at One
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