Tips to prepare for Group Interviews
A group interview is different than a one-on-one interview because it is conducted by a whole group of people. Group interviews involve getting together with other job candidates to meet with one or more interviewers. The most important thing to remember in a group interview is that you have to stand out from the crowd.
Mostly in group interviews consists the employer gives the presentation to the candidates about the company and position. During Group interviews managers evaluate candidates leadership qualities, team spirit, ability to interact and communicate successfully with others in the group, assess the contribution you make to the group and how often you can speak out. And they note candidate’s contributions, participation and the levels of individual knowledge they possess.
Group interviewers are conducted to select strong candidate who knows how to work well with others and behave properly and competently in a work environment. Other things they observe in candidate’s is the ability to handle stress, to deal with feedback and give feedback and to analyze and problem-solve.
* As you arrive early to the group interview, rather than sitting quietly, get to know your fellow candidates. Establish rapport with group members by finding what you have in common and communicating in a similar style. since employers observe who communicates well with others.
* Be polite and professional, before you begin the interview introduce yourself politely to the other candidates. Prepare well for this introduction before your group interview.
* Stand up confidently and maintain eye contact with the different group members while you give a concise summary of your interests and achievements. Highlight an interest or passion that is specific to you. State your personal career goals.
* Managers want to know that you are a good listener and can take in information quickly. Stay calm and focused throughout the process.
A simple head nod shows a lot of courtesy.
* Briefly summarize your strengths and skills. Candidates may be required to participate in work-simulation exercises.
* Prepare for the group interview by making a list of questions that you may be asked and practicing how you might answer them.
* Express your thoughts in a clear and direct way. Prepare a short but informative summary of the company including its size and structure, the types of products and services it offers, its customers, its market position.
* Interviewers will be paying special attention to how you present yourself. Avoid dominating the conversation and don’t interrupt the other candidates
* 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. Support your answer with specific examples of how you used these strengths to contribute to the team.
* Focus on highlighting your skills in a positive and job-relevant way. Try to set yourself apart from the other candidates as the most suitable person for the job. You need to think about the job requirements and emphasize your fit with these needs.
* 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
* Don’t try to impress the group interviewer by pretending to be something you’re not. Interviewers are trained to see through any deception so stay genuine.
* Thank everyone who interviewed you and remember names and titles so that you can send a written than you note afterwards.