How to hande the panel or group interview.

Panel and group interviews are becoming a common practice for many companies as they try to reduce the bad hiring decisions and assess the talent from different angles. In panel interviews, a candidate will be interviewed by two or more individuals. This type of interview is typically a question and answer session, but be prepared to simulate potential work scenarios. In group interviews, where there are several candidates in a room, the company wants to see a strong candidate who knows how to work well with others and can truly sell themselves.

Here are some tips that can help you NAIL the group or panel interview:

• Preparation is the key to success with any type of interview. Research the company, learn any pertinent news about the organization and try to find out their expectations for the position (via networking).
• Engage everyone in the group when you are answering or asking questions.
• Be prepared to answer the tough questions, especially “Why should we hire you instead of everyone else in the room?”.
• If you are in a group interview environment, it’s better to lead than to follow.
• During group and panel interviews, be prepared to demonstrate your leadership skills, your ability to handle stress and pressure and how well you take/give criticism.
• Make sure to thank everyone who interviewed you and send them a “Thank you” letter after the interview.
• SELL yourself! Be passionate and sincere with your answers and make sure you demonstrate value to the organization.