How to Do Well in a Group Interview

You show up for your interview, psyched and ready to wow your potential employer. Then you discover the four other candidates equally hungry to impress the hiring manager and score the position. Can you handle the pressure of a group interview? Well you can if follow our advice.

Things You'll Need

• Job description
• Information about the company that you are interviewing with
• Practice interviewing
• Proper attire
• Strong communication skills

Instructions

1. Think about three skills that are needed for the position that you are applying for. Before the interview, think of ways that you can show that you have these skills. Be prepared to give examples of times that you used these skills in an effective manner.

2. Group interviews can involve not only several candidates, but also different managers. Try to determine what each manager is looking for in an employee. Show equal respect to all hiring personnel, even if you know who the ultimate decision maker is.

3. If the interview is an open dialogue format, be sure that you speak up. However, never interrupt someone else. Make sure that you speak up, wait your turn to speak and do not dominate the entire interview.

4. You may feel tempted to answer questions quickly before the other applicants can respond. This will almost always lead to inappropriately worded answers. Waiting until the others have answered is far better than blurting out an ill-phrased response.

5. It is likely that someone answering a question before you will respond in the same way that you were going to. You must expect this and be prepared for it. Instead of changing your answer simply to throw out an original response, think of a statement or point that adds to the first person's answer. This will show the manager that you have good listening skills and that you can remain calm under pressure.

6. During the interview, the manager may give the applicant group tasks to complete. This is a way to see who takes charge, who follows instructions, and how other respond to a person's attempt at leadership. Even if you are a follower by nature, be prepared to take the lead and show your potential employer your leadership and managerial skills.

7. Be sure to ask the hiring manager insightful, meaningful questions. This shows that you have done research in the company and that you are truly interested in the position. Be sure to be familiar with the job description and the company before the interview.

Tips & Warnings

• Be respectful of the other applicants while attempting to distinguish yourself from them.

• Interrupting others during a group interview does not show that you are assertive. Instead, you will appear to have poor social skills and may even come off as being aggressive.

Resources

• Group Interiew Tips