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You finally got that long-awaited email inviting you to an interview, but it's a group interview!

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Wait! There's no need to freak out!

A group interview is actually a valuable opportunity to demonstrate your skills for the recruiter and secure a spot for the next phase of the hiring process.

What Is A Group Interview?

A group interview is a phase of the hiring process in which you are interviewed alongside other potential candidates for the same position. Your mission is to leave a positive impression and stand out!

Group interviews can involve:

Team-Building Activities

Interviewees participate in case studies and role-playing exercises to spark group discussion and assess candidates’ skills in action.

Turn-Taking Conversation

The interviewer asks each candidate, one at a time, questions to assess their responses and reactions.

ariana grande thank you GIF by Robert E Blackmon

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Did you know?

Unlike a group interview, in a panel interview you will be interviewed by multiple interviewers at the same meeting. Panel interviews frequently include an HR representative, your future supervisor, and other co-workers.

Arrive Early

It is not just about being punctual and reliable. By arriving early, you can:

  • Pull yourself together and regain your focus after your commute;

  • Get familiar with the company's culture and environment;

  • Talk to other candidates to build rapport and reinforce your interpersonal skills.

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Listen Actively

One of the features of a great team player is being a good listener. Listen closely to what both the interviewers and the other candidates say. 

Listening actively will allow you to:

  • Support other candidates’ contributions;

  • Build on the conversation by adding your own (relevant) thoughts;

  • Tailor unique answers to the questions asked.

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Be A Leader

...but don't dominate the whole interview.

Initiative and leadership are decisive traits that help you stand out when competing against other candidates.

However, group interviews also test whether you are a team player and work well with others.

Star Wars Yoda

  • Be the first to answer the interviewer's questions, but allow others to respond first too;

  • Be respectful and listen to the other candidates’ ideas;

  • Make yourself heard, but do not impose your opinion.

Quiz

You are in a group interview discussing the details and possible solution of a case study with your group, but no one seems to buy into your idea. What should you do?

Use Body Language

Set yourself apart from other candidates before you even start talking. 

  • Smile and appear approachable;

  • Show confidence by holding an upright posture;

  • Make eye contact while you talk;

  • Nod in recognition of other candidates' comments.

john stamos smile GIF by Grandfathered

Take Action

Do you have a group interview coming up?

Take a deep breath and don't forget to:

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License:

This Byte has been authored by

CB

Camila Beltrame

Lifelong learner | L&D Professional

English

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