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Not taking time to prepare for a panel interview can lead to missed opportunities and setbacks in your professional journey. We’ve spent almost two decades assisting job seekers in securing rewarding careers. We’re sharing the comprehensive guide with knowledge and tools to excel in your panel interview as you face multiple decision-makers.
Panel Interview Preparation: A Comprehensive 8-Step Guide
To prepare for panel interviews, you need to spend time researching the company’s culture and history and the panel members. Compare the work description against your resume’s skill set and practice answering common questions. Make sure to bring copies of your CV or portfolio, dress appropriately, and make an excellent first impression.
A panel interview involves facing multiple people simultaneously, so proper preparation is key. We understand that preparing for a group interview, such as a panel interview, can be challenging. However, it’s also an opportunity to impress the hiring team with your skills and personality.
| Steps | Actions |
| Do your research |
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| Study the role description and review your CV |
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| Practice answering common questions |
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| Bring extra resumes, business cards, and a notepad |
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| Dress professionally and arrive early |
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| Set a great first impression |
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| Take notes |
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| Do post-interview tasks |
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This article will provide practical tips and strategies for preparing for a panel interview to help you feel confident and ready to rock. We’ll cover everything from researching the organization and panel members to practicing your responses and following up after the interview.
At MatchBuilt, we’re committed to helping applicants like you navigate the interview process quickly and confidently. Let’s prepare you for a panel interview that will leave a lasting impression on the hiring managers!
Understanding how to prepare for a panel interview may take a few minutes, yet doing so will help you showcase your skills and make a positive impression. To help you feel confident and prepared for your upcoming panel interview, we’ve put together a comprehensive eight-step guide.
MatchBuilt, an experienced recruitment agency with 18 years of expertise, is committed to assisting seekers in their quest for their dream role. These practical tips and strategies will help you ace your next panel interview as you grow your career path.
1. Research the Company and Interview Panel Members
Preparing for a panel interview is a good idea that requires a unique approach to the interview process. Unlike a one-on-one interview, a panel interview involves meeting with team members who hold different roles and perspectives within the institution.
Online resources, such as the company’s website and social media pages, can provide valuable information on its goals and what they are looking for in an applicant. To make sure you’re the ideal candidate for the job offer, research both the business and the panel.
- Look for the HR manager or others who may be part of the panel and learn about their roles, responsibilities, and backgrounds. This will give you an idea of what they are looking for in a potential employer.
- Identify commonalities between the enterprise and the entire panel, such as shared interests or goals. Understanding these connections can help you tailor your responses to the follow-up questions and showcase how you can contribute to the company’s success.
If you want a job with a certain company, study everything about that firm that’s in the public domain: annual reports, executive speeches and presentations, media interviews, and social media sites, including the firm’s website. Wrap your mind around what its leaders are saying—what their vision is, what the company’s position in the marketplace is. It’s also a good opportunity to see if that company’s goals impress you.
Once you’ve completed this analysis, you will be able to tell the interviewer, “I’m impressed with the direction your company is taking,” or, “I was inspired by the chairman’s speech to shareholders.” And you’ll be able to ask good probing questions.
2. Review the Job Description and Your Resume
Preparing for a panel interview requires a different level of preparation than a typical interview. One of the most important steps is to review the role description and your CV thoroughly. This will keep your skills and experiences aligned with the position and the company’s needs.
Start by thoroughly reading the role’s description. Pay attention to the required skills, qualifications, and specific responsibilities or duties. List the important requirements and capabilities to help you stay focused during the interview.
- Review the role description to understand the type of interview you will be attending.
Research the company’s culture, values, and mission statement, as these are valuable elements of the hiring process. - Compare the work description to your CV. Check if your experience, education, and skills align with the work requirements. Update your resume to highlight your relevant experience and qualifications.
- Provide examples of past experiences that showcase your skills related to the position. Use specific examples to demonstrate how you have successfully used your skills in previous roles. Be prepared to discuss your accomplishments and explain how they relate to the position requirements.
Review the work description and your CV and prepare specific examples of your past experiences. In this way, you’ll be better equipped to demonstrate your qualifications and fit during the panel interview.
By reviewing the job description and your resume and preparing specific examples of your past experiences, you’ll be better equipped to demonstrate your qualifications and fit during the panel interview.
As for your interview, reading the job description prior to this opportunity is crucial and can ultimately make sure you are fully prepared to show yourself in the best light. You can easily rely on the job description as you prepare for an interview. First, look through the job description and reflect on what skills or experiences you have that match the language used. From there, prepare and develop anecdotes and examples of times you have used those skills successfully in the workplace.
3. Practice Your Responses to Common Interview Questions
When preparing for a panel interview, anticipate and prepare for the types of questions that may be asked. This is especially important because a panel interview typically involves people with different perspectives and interests.
The best way to prepare is to create a list of common panel interview questions and brainstorm specific questions that may be asked based on the work description and company culture.
- To create good responses, prepare concise and relevant answers that emphasize your experience and qualifications. Show the panel interviewers that you’re a good fit for the organization and can contribute to its success.
- During the interview, try to find common ground with the panel members and emphasize any critical information relevant to the position.
- Research the members and familiarize yourself with their backgrounds and responsibilities. This can help you tailor your responses to their perspectives and make a good impression.
Practice your responses to common strategic panel interview questions. Conduct a mock interview or rehearse with a friend. This will help you feel more confident during the actual interview and ensure that you’re prepared to answer any question that may come up.
Here are ten examples of interview questions that the panel may ask, along with some potential answers and why the board may ask them:
| Question | Example Answer | Why Panel May Ask |
|---|---|---|
| Tell us about yourself. | “I have five years of experience in project management, and I’m excited to bring my skills and experience to this role.” | To learn more about your background and experience |
| Why are you interested in this role? | “I’m excited about the company’s mission and values, and I believe my experience and skills would be a great fit for this position.” | To understand your motivations and fit with the business |
| What are your strengths? | “I’m a great communicator and have strong problem-solving skills.” | To learn more about your skills and abilities |
| What are your weaknesses? | “I tend to take on too much at once, but I’ve been working on prioritizing my tasks and delegating when necessary.” | To assess your self-awareness and ability to improve |
| Can you give an example of a time when you had to overcome a challenge? | “In my previous role, I had to lead a team through a difficult project. I worked closely with the team to develop a plan, and we successfully completed the project on time.” | To assess your problem-solving skills and ability to work under pressure |
| How do you handle conflicts with coworkers or supervisors? | “I believe in open and honest communication and try to find common ground to resolve conflicts.” | To assess your communication and conflict-resolution skills |
| Can you describe your experience with [specific skill or technology]? | “I have experience using [specific skill or technology] in my previous roles, and I’m comfortable learning new tools and technologies.” | To assess your technical skills and ability to adapt |
| Why should we hire you? | “I have the experience, skills, and passion for this role, and I’m confident that I would positively impact the team and the organization.” | To assess your confidence and fit for the role |
| How do you stay organized and manage your time? | “I use a combination of calendars, to-do lists, and project management tools to stay organized and manage my time effectively.” | To assess your organizational skills and ability to prioritize tasks |
| Can you give an example of a time when you went above and beyond for a project or client? | “In my previous role, I worked closely with clients to understand their needs and developed a custom solution that exceeded their expectations.” | To assess your dedication and customer service skills |
4. Bring Copies of Your Resume, Business Card, and a Notepad
It’s a good idea to bring several copies of your resume and a list of references to a panel interview. You may also want to bring a notepad and pen to take notes during the interview. Remember to bring business cards as well.
5. Dress Appropriately and Arrive Early
Your appearance and punctuality are significant considerations when preparing for a panel interview. Unlike a one-on-one interview, you’ll face recruitment specialists who will all observe and evaluate you.
Make a positive first impression by dressing appropriately and arriving early. Being punctual and reliable is vital for making a good impression on the interviewers.
- Research the dress code and dress accordingly. Dress more professionally than you think is required, showing that you take the interview seriously and respect the company’s culture.
- Even if the business has a casual dress code, it’s a good rule of thumb to follow professional attire for a panel interview. Wear a suit or dress pants/skirt and a button-up shirt or blouse. Keep your clothing clean and pressed, and avoid anything too flashy or distracting.
- Arriving at least 15 minutes early shows that you’re punctual and reliable, and it also gives you time to check in, compose yourself, and mentally prepare for the interview. Plan for traffic, parking, or any other potential delays that may arise. You don’t want to feel rushed or flustered when you meet the interviewers.
Ultimately, dressing appropriately and arriving early for a panel interview are small yet significant steps that can help you make a positive impression and increase your chances of landing the position. This will help you build rapport and demonstrate that you’re a confident and capable employee.
6. Impress the Panel and Crush the First Impression
A panel interview can be nerve-wracking, yet keeping a few best practices in mind can help you feel more confident and make a great impression. Here are some tips to help you navigate the panel interview format:
- Greet each panel member individually with a smile and a firm handshake when you enter the interview room. This small gesture can go a long way in establishing a positive rapport and showing that you’re confident and professional.
- Throughout the interview, pay attention to the body language and make eye contact with each person as they speak. This demonstrates that you’re engaged and interested in what each panel member has to say and helps you establish a connection with each interviewer.
- Staying attentive throughout the interview can be challenging, particularly with several people asking questions. To stay focused, listen carefully to each question and take a moment to gather your thoughts before responding.
- Remember to answer each question fully and concisely. Don’t hesitate to ask for clarification if you’re unsure about something.
- Maintain a respectful and polite demeanor throughout the interview. This is even if you disagree with a panel member’s opinions or viewpoints.
- Engage your active listening skills when facing multiple interviewers. Listen to each interview question before formulating your response, making sure you don’t interrupt or cut off the interviewer. Pause briefly before answering to show respect while gathering your thoughts.
- During a panel interview, some recruiters may be seated further away, making it challenging for them to hear you clearly. After the first interview question, politely ask if everyone can hear you properly. Adjust your speaking volume and enunciate words clearly to avoid repeating yourself unnecessarily.
Mark Anthony Dyson, the Founder of The Voice of Job Seekers, shares his insider tip that helps you quickly build rapport with all of the interviewers on the panel:
“Address each panelist by name and keep their area of leadership in mind. When you customize your answer to solve their unique problem, they reach satisfaction with your performance more easily.”
Not only does this make you stand out, but it also shows that you have strong active listening skills and can think on your feet by personalizing your responses with this technique.
Remember to demonstrate your genuine interest in the position and the institution. Showcase your qualifications using the STAR method to answer common questions.
7. Take Notes
Taking notes during a panel interview can be challenging since you’re interacting with several interviewers simultaneously. While we don’t recommend taking so many notes that they become a distraction to both you and the panel, it is beneficial to jot down key points.
Here are some tips:
- Use initials or assign numbers to each interviewer to easily connect your notes to specific individuals.
- Jot down the full name of each interviewer next to their assigned number or initials for reference.
- Take notes on key points, interview questions asked, and any information you want to follow up on or clarify.
- Be mindful of your note-taking etiquette; avoid excessive writing that may appear disengaged.
8. Follow-Up Matters
Following up after a panel interview is not only courteous but also a great way to stay top of mind with potential employers. As Mark Matyanowski, the founder of MatchBuilt, explains, “Following up after an interview is the first thing that separates a good candidate from a great one.” Here are some tips for following up after a panel-style interview:
- Send a personalized thank-you note to each panel member within 24 hours of the interview: It’s essential to send a thank-you note to each panel member to show your appreciation for their time and consideration. A personalized note shows that you were attentive, engaged during the interview, and excited about possibly working with the brand. Be sure to mention something specific from the interview to show that you were paying attention.
- Express your continued interest in the position and the business: During the interview, you likely discussed your interest in the position and the brand. Reiterate your interest in your follow-up communication. This shows you’re still excited about the opportunity and committed to the search process.
- Keep the lines of communication open in case the panel needs any additional information: The hiring process can involve different types of interviews, and you might need to speak with different departments or individuals for the next interview. So, keep the lines of communication open if the panel needs any additional information from you. This also gives you the opportunity toask other questions or concerns they may have.
Finally, whether you’re participating in in-person or virtual panel interviews, remember to bring business cards and ask follow-up questions to show interest in the position and the organization. By following these panel interview tips, you can make a good impression and increase your chances of landing the role.
Remember that not following up after a panel interview could be a red flag. It shows that you might not be the right person for the position or are not a team player.
Going the extra mile to follow up shows that you’re invested in the recruitment process and willing to put in the effort to secure the position. Follow up on the interview day or at least within 24 hours to make a positive impression.
Hiring managers understand that candidates may be interviewing for multiple jobs at the same time. Busy themselves, leaders don’t want to invest time in a candidate who is not invested in the role they’re hiring for. A thank you message confirms that you’re both interested and excited about the role and worth following up with.
What Is a Panel Interview?
A panel interview is a type of job interview where you, the interviewee, meet with a number of interviewers simultaneously. Unlike a group interview, where several candidates are interviewed together, a panel interview involves:
- A panel of two or more interviewers
- Interviewing only one applicant at a time
- Allowing each interviewer to ask questions and evaluate the interviewee
A panel or group interview involves meeting with multiple panel or board members simultaneously by making eye contact and interpreting body language. Alternatively, a one-on-one interview with a hiring manager is a more traditional approach.
Panel interviews differ from team interviews, which involve meeting potential team members either individually or as a group. In a panel interview, the hiring specialists may come from different departments or have varying roles within the institution.
What Happens in a Panel Interview?
During a panel interview, you can expect a range of components designed to assess your fit for the role. This may include:
- Delivering a presentation on a relevant topic to showcase your skills
- Performing a work-related task or simulation
- Answering questions from each panel member about your experience, qualifications, and how you would handle specific situations
- Asking questions and learning about the role from multiple perspectives
- Observing interaction to gain insights into the business
Throughout the process, hiring specialists will likely take notes and evaluate how well you demonstrate your transferable skills, knowledge, and ability to contribute to the organization’s success.
How Long Does a Panel Interview Usually Last?
A panel interview can last anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on the company and the role. Be prepared for a longer discussion and maintain your focus and energy.
Why Do Employers Use Panel Interviews in a Hiring Process?
By having multiple people in the room, employers can gain insights that may be missed in a one-person interview setting. The varied backgrounds and roles of the panel members provide a more holistic view of how well an application might fit the position and the company’s background.
Employers often use panel interviews as part of their hiring process for several key reasons:
- Scheduling efficiency: Bringing the panel members and interviewees together simultaneously eliminates coordinating multiple interview schedules. This paves the way for a faster hiring process compared to individual interviews.
- Diverse perspectives: Each interviewer may interpret your responses differently. The various perspectives provide a unique dynamic for evaluating candidates.
- Collaborative evaluation: Every relevant interviewer will be present in the same room to observe you as an applicant. Your recruiters can review and discuss responses immediately after you answer. The real-time input from multiple people removes bias in decision-making.
- Deeper assessment: With all the panel members present, this kind of interview creates a more comprehensive evaluation of an interviewee’s skills. Each interviewer can use presentations, simulations, and other assessments to focus on specific areas based on their role or expertise.
Mistakes to Avoid During an Interview
While you never know exactly what questions are going to be asked during a panel interview or who might be present, Dyson highlights the most common mistakes candidates make:
- “People don’t practice.
- They don’t know the names of the panelists.
- They don’t research each panelist, their area of leadership, and their expertise.
- They don’t direct their answers toward the person asking the question.
- People are often overwhelmed by the moment and aren’t mentally sharp.”
These mistakes can easily be avoided by spending a couple of hours practicing, doing basic research, and working on your confidence and eye contact. Fixing these mistakes can be the deciding factor between you and another interviewee landing the job.
Related Questions
How Should I Prepare for a Panel Interview?
When preparing for a panel interview, where more than one person will interview you, you need to improve your public speaking skills to communicate your qualifications and expertise effectively. It also helps to research the company’s culture thoroughly, practice concise answers, and familiarize yourself with each panelist’s role.
How Do You Pass a Panel Interview?
To pass a panel interview, you must engage with all the panel members and provide thorough responses showcasing your qualifications. Ask insightful questions demonstrating your interest and knowledge about the role and business. Additionally, take notes during the group interviews to help you address each interviewer’s concerns within the room.
What Are the Questions in Panel Interviews?
The questions in a panel interview vary depending on the company and the role. Generally, the questions will focus on your skills, experiences, and how you would handle specific position-related situations. It’s also common for recruiters to ask behavioral questions to assess your personality and work style.
What Should You Not Do in a Panel Interview?
In a panel interview, you should avoid interrupting the panel members, speaking negatively about previous employers, and commenting negatively about the company or the role. It’s also important not to dominate the conversation and allow all panel members to ask their questions.
How Do You Introduce Yourself in Panel Interviews?
To introduce yourself in a panel interview, start by thanking the panel for the opportunity to interview. Then, briefly introduce yourself, including your name, current position, and relevant experience. Be sure to speak clearly and maintain eye contact with all panel members.
Is a Panel Interview Harder Than a One-to-One Interview?
Panel interviews are often more challenging than one-on-one interviews since multiple people evaluate the applicant simultaneously. This creates a high-pressure situation where you must impress a group rather than just one interviewer.
What Is the Difference Between In-Person and Virtual Panel Interviews?
A key difference between in-person and virtual (video interview) panel interviews is how you engage with and acknowledge the panel members. In a virtual setting, making direct eye contact is harder, so you must actively keep track of who has and has yet to speak to make sure you address everyone.
How Do I Know If My Panel Interview Performance Went Well?
It’s difficult to know for certain if your panel interview went well unless you receive a job offer. However, engaging with the other panelists, providing thorough and compelling answers, and following up promptly can give you a sense of how well you performed. Paying attention to the panel’s demeanor throughout the interview can provide clues about your prospects.
Conclusion
With these tips for panel interviews, you’ll be better equipped to navigate the group conversation and differentiate yourself from other candidates. With the right mindset and preparation, you can showcase your qualifications and stand out as the ideal candidate for the role.
Thank you for considering MatchBuilt as your recruitment partner. We wish you the best of luck in your job search and are excited to assist you in achieving your career objectives.
