Acing a Group Interview

Employers are constantly finding ways to make interviews easier and more effective. The cost of making a bad hire is a burdensome one, and innovative new approaches to interviews are proving effective tools in the hiring process. One innovative approach that is gaining in popularity is the group interview.

Don’t worry – group interviews don’t have to be scary!

Participating in a group interview can be pretty intimidating. You’re literally sitting next to competition for the job..it can be pretty daunting! Here are 3 tips to help you ace your group interview and land your next great job:

  1. Speak up! Yes, you’ll be competing for “air time” in a group interview, but if you don’t speak up and make yourself heard, you’ll be the first person forgotten by hiring managers. Stay polite and refrain from talking over or cutting off other interviewees, but be sure to speak up! Speak clearly, pace yourself, and when you have the opportunity, focus on your strengths. But don’t ramble. There is limited time in a group interview, and if you hoard the spotlight only to go off on a tangent, you’ll be remembered — but for the wrong reason.
  2. Interact with the competition. Successfully integrating yourself into a new place of employment requires teamwork and communication skills. So take the opportunity to interact with other interviewees in your group interview. Nod your head, look at other interviewees when they speak, and even comment on another candidate if the opportunity presents itself. You’ll look more professional and engaged in the interview, and you’ll demonstrate that you’re able to be a productive member of a team.
  3. Listen. Don’t let your nerves get away from you. Listen – to both the interviewer and your fellow interviewees. You don’t want to miss a critical area while you respond to a question, or an opportunity to build upon another interviewee’s answer. When you’re not speaking, make sure you’re still actively listening to others who are – the information shared could be essential to the success of your interview.

In addition to these tips, don’t forget other interview essentials, like appropriate dress and copies of your resume and references. Make good eye contact, give firm (and dry) handshakes, and show good posture. Follow these tips, and you’re sure to make a good impression!

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