Tips for Group Interview
A recruiter will bring together group of applicants to see how those candidates interact and work together in a team situation. Group interviews involve getting together with other job candidates to meet with one or more interviewers. Usually it involves a number of interviewers – potential managers or supervisors, human resources, even future co-workers and a group of candidates all together in one room.
Group interviews are cost-effective and more efficient than traditional one-on-one interviews. Group Interviews are used to see how you react in a group. If you are leading a group then the observer will be interested in seeing how good you are at delegating tasks and how much of the work you keep for yourself.
Group interviews begin with a short presentation about the company and its objectives. Next, the interviewers explain the specific details of the position that is open. After the presentation, a candidate will likely be asked to introduce himself to the rest of the group. From there, companies use a variety of tactics to get candidates thinking.
There are two types of group interviews.
In the first type, you will gather with other job candidates to meet with one or more interviewers. All the candidates or job seekers will be in the same room during the interview.
The second type is called a panel group interview or panel interview. An interviewing panel conducts panel interview. The interview panel can consist of top-level CEOs, this depends the kind of position you are applying for. The organizations use the panel interview to see the candidate?s reaction to stress. You will be asked questions from all the panel members; some times the same question by different panel members. You should always remain calm during a panel interview. Take a breath, if you see the situation getting out of hand.
To succeed in group interview follow the tips for group interview:
1. You must know when your interview is scheduled, Time, location and approximate length of the interview. Know the names and titles of the people on the panel.
2. At the interview, these people want to determine whether they like you and whether you will fit into their operation. The best way to be likable is to appear confident. Shake hands with each panel member. Explain that you brought a fresh copy of your resume for everyone.
3. During group interview exercises, it is better to be one of the leaders than one of the followers and most people recognize this.? It is important to be seen as an active participant rather than merely an observer. Contribute your views and ideas while also listening to the other candidates. If you want to lead and have the chance to express an interest and state your case, do so, but be gracious if you’re not chosen.
4. Be aware of your body language. This is something that will be carefully observed. Make sure you are sending the right non-verbal message with your interview body language.
5. When the first question is asked, take the opportunity to thank the panel before you answer. Begin your answer by looking at the person who asked it. Then move your head slightly and make contact with others on the panel. It is not necessary to make eye contact with each person for every question, but do not leave anyone.
6. Finish your answer while looking at the person who asked the question, and remember to make your answers slightly shorter.
7. With many candidates all trying to contribute, someone may make your point first. If this happens, think of a statement that adds to this point. This demonstrates that you listen actively and think on your feet
8. When it?s time to ask a question of your own, try to direct it to one person.
9. End the interview be polite on your way out and shake the hand of all of the interviewers and any other candidates that are in the room by telling the group that you have enjoyed the interview and look forward to an opportunity to work with them.
10. After the interview send at least one thank you letter, to the head of the committee. It?s very good if you send thank you letter to all the panel members.