You Think a Job Interview is Tough? Here is The Mother of All Interviews

Every so often when you go for an interview, you push the door entering a room filled when more than one interviewers. That situation is when you’ll be glad you read this post. Giving an interview can be a hard but giving a panel interview is the real challenge.

What is a Panel Interview?

Panel interview as the name suggest is an interview where a group of people join together to cross-examine an applicant. People in the panel often include panel leader and other members of the organization. Many job seekers deem it as uncomfortable and tricky. Employers adopt this strategy to figure out the best of the best applicants. As a number of people increases, the variety of questions increases. After all the questions panel members vote for the applicant and decide mutually. But these interviews can be quite easy if you are properly prepared.

Why Panel Interviews?

Panel interviews are quite common in large organization and government sectors. These organizations require highly competitive members. Panel interview allows them to collectively judge the right person for the job. This is not only time saving but also an efficient method.

Panel interviews provide the necessary assessment of the applicant’s character and other details. This also allows the panel to speculate when faced by the panel how an applicant responds and communicates. These factors later provide the basis for selection and rejection.

Panel interviews are quite reasonable in assessment and provide valid proof of applicant’s shortcomings. The panel’s decision is made after approval of all the members based on analysis, discussion, and experience.

Preparing for Panel Interview

Research is a must for every interview. Looking up at the organization's details and the background is always a good idea. This helps in knowing the environment of the organization which can lead to the understanding of the cultural norm that is followed within the organization.

Before actually giving the interview practice yourself. Imagine yourself being surrounded by a professional panel asking you all sorts of questions. Try creating this visual until you feel comfortable with the thought. Arrange a mock interview and answer different questions. This will improve your confidence level and prepare you for the actual interview. Members of the interview look for following qualities

One the day of interview unwind and bear in mind that you can do this you are prepared, you have done research and you have to get this job. Be confident and have faith in yourself. Follow all the points for giving an interview like dress code etc. While the interview is being conducted, maintain eye contact with all the panel members.

Before answering any question take the time to analyze what is the panel member actually trying to ask and respond accordingly to the same person who asked the question. But also maintain a little eye contact with other members so that they feel included. Moreover, make sure you hear the question right if you feel doubt ask right away.

In the end, ask questions that you have in mind about the company or the post. It shows that you are interested and really want the job. Before leaving thank all the members of the panel for their time and for providing you this opportunity.

Panel interviews are a must have experience. They not only develop your mindset but also make you more confident. Panel interviews are also a chance to network with the people of the different organization. This leads to discovering new paths and opportunities.