Employers will often use group job interviews, especially when they need to hire a lot of new employees at one time. Generally, these will be in the form of many candidates being asked the same questions or being led in an exercise by the interviewers. It is difficult to predict what questions may be asked in these settings. This makes preparation for these interviews somewhat problematic but there are a few steps you can take to be ready for group job interviews. The company doing the hiring will have already brought in the candidates who they think are the most suitable for the position. Group interviews are a great way for employers to sift out the candidates who do not quite meet their criteria at one time. This saves the company a lot of time, compared to individual interviews. The exercises or questions will have the goal of seeing how the candidates would react to various situations which may arise in the workplace. Quite often, the group will be separated into teams and assigned a problem to solve, with their solution to be presented to the group as a whole. Group job interview candidates will also, in some cases, be asked to answer questions which are not work related such as the well known question of which 50 out of 100 people should be rescued from a ship which is sinking. These questions will spark a lot of discussion among the group, letting the interviewer assess the candidates' negotiation skills and decision making. Interviewers will observe how the process plays out among the group; asking questions, taking notes, even providing encouragement. They are watching the group, but will be carefully watching the performance of individuals within it as well, so even when in a group setting, you should do your best to make a good impression on the interviewer. Interviewers will notice 1. How you interact with others in the group 2. Your skill at influencing and persuading the rest of your team 3. How well you work in group settings 4. How strong your communication skills are 5. Whether your decisions are based on logic or on emotion 6. If you are a good listener 7. How well you handle stress Interviewers will also be watching to see who emerges as a leader within the groups and how effectively they delegate tasks to the rest of the group. They will also be watching how group members react to the leader. They will want to know if the leader 1. Includes all team members, even members who don't speak up on their own 2. Takes changing conditions into account and makes changes accordingly 3. Listens to and asks questions of their team 4. Gives credit where credit is due There is no way to be sure that you will be prepared for any possible question asked in group job interviews, but these tips can make sure that you are as ready as possible for what may come in this interview process.
As with any workout/fitness training you must make a commitment in order to improve your skills. You must be willing to put in time and energy and take an active part in the process - to build up your interview muscles. The interview is a type of performance, or presentation. You will need to do some preparation and have a rehearsal. You will need to put effort into your exercises to become a stronger presenter. The goal is to be prepared and natural.
Since no two interviews are alike, it is difficult to be prepared for what lies ahead, but you can focus on your presentation skills, which may be even more important than what you have to say. Three areas of performance, which should be considered dangerous and deadly, are worth spending some time thinking about before your next interview.
1. Poor non-verbal communication image
It's about demonstrating confidence ?
? Stand straight, and make good eye contact. (Note the color of the interviewer's eyes.)
? Connect with a good, firm handshake. (There's nothing like a limp response in a handshake.)
? Sit erect and lean forward in the chair, appearing interested and attentive. (Slumping denotes a lazy attitude.)
That first impression can be a great beginning, or a quick ending to your interview.
2. Poor verbal communication skills
Your interviewer is giving you information, either directly or indirectly.
? Good communication skills include listening and letting the person know you heard what they said.
? Observe your interviewer's style and pace and match that style, adjusting your style and pace to match.
? Use appropriate language. (Beware of using slang words or references to age, race, religion, politics, or sexual preferences ? these topics could get the door slammed very quickly.)
? Telling the interviewer more than they need to know could be a fatal mistake. (Too much information ? particularly personal information - could get into some areas that are best not discussed in an interview.)
3. Not asking questions
It is extremely important to ask questions.
? When asked, "Do you have any questions?" if you answer "No," it is the WRONG answer!
? Asking questions gives you the opportunity to show your interest. (The best questions come from listening to what is said and asked during the interview. Ask for additional information.)
? Asking questions gives you the opportunity to find out if this is the right place for you. (Your chance to find out what goes on in the company.)
The job market is very competitive and the competition is fierce. Give yourself every advantage by preparing and practicing before the interview. Be aware of your verbal and non-verbal performance and the messages you are sending. It could make the difference between a job offer or not.
Copyright (c) 2007 Carole Martin, The Interview Coach
Both Ada Denis & Carole Martin are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.