Recently, I received an invitation for an interview. I have had one on one interviews in the past but never a panel interview. I was a little nervous and not sure what to expect. One thing I did know for sure was that I needed to prepare.
So what exactly is a panel interview and how is it different from other interviews? A panel interview is conducted by two or more interviewers. Usually, they are employees of the company. Each of the interviewers will ask you one or more questions.
Preparation for the interview
If you can, try to find out who will be at the interview. If you get their names, you can check to see if they have LinkedIn pages. Search the company website. You should be able to find the interviewers company roles as well as their responsibilities. Research the company and the job description you are applying to. You want to make sure that you know the requirements and that you are capable of fulfilling them. Learn about the company culture.
Also, you should have prepared answers for common interview questions, such as tell me about yourself and why do you want to work here? Don’t answer with a life story or say “Because I need a job”. Have thoughtful and intelligent answers. Be on time, a little early if possible and be appropriately dressed.
During the interview
Engage with each interviewer, even if one of them is asking more questions than the others or if they are at the most senior level. Assume all of them are influential in the hiring decision. Pay attention to your body language. Be alert, sit up straight and look each interviewer in the eye. Do not look down at your resume and read off of it. Don’t look upset or offended if you are asked about any employment gaps or a question that seems obvious or stupid to you. Speak calmly and slowly. You don’t want to come across as nervous or look like you are about to freak or pass out.
Don’t leave without asking any questions and get the interviewers’ contact information(business cards).
After the interview
Still have those business cards? Shortly after the interview, send a thank you note to each interviewer. Keep it short and sweet. If you haven’t heard back from them, give it a week or two and follow up.
I used these tips and my interview went well. Keep these in mind for your interview.
Got a job interview coming up? Need to prepare?We can help. Check us out at CareerEducators4You, LLC. http://www.careereducators4you.info/index.html. Contact us at careereducators4you@gmail.com or 754-200-1932.