Panel interviews are gaining popularity as employers earnestly seek for exceptional staff to represent their company. The hiring process can be daunting, let a lone interviewing with a panel of top company leaders. Don’t be caught in a state of panic. Be prepared and confident throughout the interview process by mastering the ten strategies listed below.
10 STRATEGIES TO MASTER PANEL INTERVIEWS:
1. Learn the company. Research facts, accomplishments, projects, goals, and company credentials. Much information is accessible on the web and in company websites. Gathering company data can be of great value when preparing for an interview, demonstrating interest and adequate preparation in part of the jobseeker.
2. Examine the job culture. Every company has a unique work environment. Scope the workplace examining language, attire, employee interactions, and overall work ambiance. Verbal and nonverbal cues will key you into the job culture.
3. Be prepared to answer an array of questions. You may have all the credentials on paper, yet there are personal attributes that can make or break your chances of getting hired. How well do you handle change, stress, and unexpected life events? How do you spend your time outside of work? Are you involved in high-risk activities? Do you attend non-profitable organizations? Answers to these questions share insight on character and behavioral patterns in and out of the workplace.
4. Make a list of strong points you want to discuss. Panel interviews provide opportunity to share valuable information with company leaders. Outline how you can be an asset to the company, share goals & aspirations, and provide other valuable points. The idea is to stand out from the crowd, highlighting your passion and ambition for the job position.
5. Ask questions. Make a list of valuable questions for the interviewer. Be sure to inquire job responsibilities and expectations that may affect you as a future employee. Will the company be opening more locations? Is there room for growth in the company? What are the benefits for full-time employees?
6. Prepare days in advance. Practice and preparation is key for success when interviewing. Ask family and friends to listen as you engage asking and answering different interview questions. Have your resume, professional attire, and other needed essentials ready days in advance for the interview.
7. Stay focused and confident throughout the interview. Fear, anxiety, excitement, dread, nervousness, and other emotions may arise as various leaders flood you with questions. Regain your focus and confidence remembering what you want to accomplish from this interview.
8. Follow-up. Send a follow-up email to the assigned personnel sharing your gratitude for the job consideration. If appropriate, inquire as to when you should be expecting a response on your qualification status.
9. Be patient. Panel interviews can take days to weeks before a final decision is made. Some companies perform all interviews in one day, while others separate interviews into weeks.
10. Stay positive and learn from experiences. Give it your best and regardless of the outcome, this will be a valuable experience in the interviewing process. If you get the job, great! If you don’t get hired ask yourself what you can learn from the experience, and be confident for the next interview. Panel interviewing can be intimidating, but with practice and preparation it can be beneficial for both employees and companies. This form of interviewing provides job candidates one-on-one access with company leaders to address important points in the hiring process. Although it can be nerve-racking, panel interviews can have positive outcomes for both businesses and job candidates. Much success on your panel interview!
