Interviews can be a nerve-wracking experience, which employers understand. So, by offering a group interview, it doesn’t only save them time, but it will also help to reduce stress for candidates. Because there will be a higher number of people attending, the time frame will increase. So, this is also a good opportunity for them to assess the candidates in groups and a one to one basis. Testing skills such as:
Teamwork
Prioritisation
Time management
Communication
Group interviews are a good opportunity for employers to see how candidates act under pressure. As well as working and connecting with new people. Although this can be seen as a more relaxed interview process, you should still be prepared and act professionally.
It is important for a recruiter to be able to give interview prep to candidates, so we have put together some do’s and don’ts for group interviews.
The Do’s:
Be early
First impressions count, so if you’re late that wouldn’t be the best start to your interview. If you are in a group interview, being one of the first to arrive can give you a good chance to introduce yourself, making it easier for the interviewers to remember you throughout the day.
Ice breaker
The ice breaker is something that no one looks forward to in a group interview, so be prepared! Whether it be a fact about you or just a brief overview, make it short, snappy and interesting. This will be one less thing to worry about and although it won’t be used against you in the interviewing process it’s another good way for the employer to remember you.
Body language
You want to come across as confident but not cocky, and your body language can make all the difference. Having your arms by your side or hands in your lap, as well as a straight back will show you are relaxed in the situation you are in. If you slouch and fold your arms, that will come across in a negative way, giving the impression you don’t want to be there.
Prepare questions
A group interview will still involve a one-to-one meeting with the potential employer. So, you still need to prepare. If you want to know about some good interview questions, please click here to find out more.
Work fairly
As group interviews test how you work in a team and communicate with others, it is important to showcase these skills appropriately. You don’t want anything you do to reflect negatively on you. Being a team player is crucial for most companies, even though everyone will be fighting for the limelight, don’t let this overtake how you present yourself.
Praise others
If you have to do group activities, listening to others and taking their ideas on board will show the interviews you are a good team player. Praising employees or co-workers for their ideas is something you should be doing, so to show this in an interview would make you stand out. Although you are all there for the same thing it is important to show that you are willing to work with others.
The Don’ts:
Be fake
Interviewers will have the skills to tell whether you are being fake or not. In any situation where your progressing in your career or starting something new, always be honest and true to yourself. This also applies to your CV. If you haven’t done it, don’t put it in there, sooner or later they will come back to haunt you.
Become too informal
It’s easy to become relaxed when you’re in an interview process with other people, but again this is what employers will be testing. Ensure you remain professional and aren’t influenced by other people throughout the process. This will not only stand you in good stead, but it will increase your chances of getting the job!
Lose concentration
Like any interview, you need to stay focused. Although group interviews are a longer process, look at it as a positive, this is just more time for you to make the best impression. Contributing to all tasks and remaining interested will make all the difference when they are considering who should get the job at the end.
With all these things in mind, no matter what type of interview you are going for it all comes down to being prepared and focused. You will always be up against other people and you will only have one chance to shine, so make it count.