Team interviews test one'ss ability to function under pressure and think on one'ss feet. While a person may have mastered this art while talking to an individual, a group of interviewers can be daunting.
The good news is that few companies use group interviews unless they are serious about hiring the candidate, according to Steven D. Davies, founder and president of PerfectJob Software.
Do well and the goal of a new job is that much closer. Here are ten tips to help candidates ace the group interview:
1. Nail down logistics: Don'st fumble during the interview wondering about
each person'ss name, or when the session will end. Find out ahead of time:
- Interviewers names, titles, and background.
- Format of interview: number and types of questions.
2. Do research: Talk to current and former employees, do internet searches and check
contact networks. Find out what each interviewer'ss interests and concerns are,
learn the culture and determine what'ss important.
3. Make a cheat sheet: For each interviewer, write down likely questions and
answers.
4. Enter strong: Interviewees should sell themselves through presence and poise by
looking everyone in the eye and firmly shaking their hand.
5. Adjust seating: Sit so eye contact can be maintained without squinting. If there is
glare, ask if the blinds can be lowered, or a light turned off.
6. Read clues: Seating and conversation between interviewers can say a lot about
role, status, and attitude.
7. Answer strong: Deliver answers clearly, addressed to whoever seems the most
influential. It is difficult, if not impossible to please everyone in the room. If
necessary, disagree without being offensive. Do add short on-point stories to
lighten the mood.
8. Follow up: Be sure to thank each interviewer personally via e-mail or letter sent via
US Mail. Use this communication to address why this job and company is a good
match.
9. Use an organization system, such as PerfectJob Software, to track and manage
interviews, who was present and results. This will help perfect skills for future
interviews.
10. Practice: A group interview is like giving a speech. Practice beforehand and use
these tips to impress the group and land the job.
Founded in 2007, PerfectJob Software helps job seekers launch, organize and maintain focus on their job search. Unlike any other organization tools available today, PerfectJob provides
best practices and coaching integrated into the process to keep job seekers motivated and on track. It streamlines and simplifies administrative tasks, allowing candidates to focus on the
search itself, not the process. PerfectJob helps professionals and recent graduates alike find their perfect job faster. For more information visit www.PerfectJobSoftware.com.