Interviews

A panel interview, also known as a board interview, is defined as an interview conducted by a team of two or more interviewers, who interview the candidate simultaneously, then combine their ratings into a final panel score. The panel interview process has evolved considerably over the past fifty years from “informal discussions” between candidates and the panel into a highly structured situational and behavioral assessment based on strict job analysis, complete with interviewer training and scoring anchors.

These type of job interviews are more likely to be used in larger organizations where the position reports to a number of different people or has multiple supervisors.

This type of job interviews are often considered a more time-efficient process for the employer. A number of those involved in the decision-making process from different parts of the organization can interview the candidate at the same time, only one job interview is needed. Each panel member will take turns to ask questions relevant to their interests and after the interview the candidate can be discussed and rated from each member’s perspective.

Board Interviews/ Panel Interviews are usually rather formal and organized, using a standard set of questions for all applicants. This type of interview is typically used in academia, government or for high-level executives but can be used for any other type of position in any company.

You’ll need to be on your toes a little more, but you’d prepare for a panel interview pretty much the same as you would for a one-to-one interview. The best advice is to prepare and practice beforehand. When you have your script written and rehearsed your answers, you will feel prepared and more confident no matter how many people you have to face.  For example,
•    Study the job description to determine what they’re looking for.
•    Memorize your resume, so you can quickly answer questions about it.
•    Research the company to show that you’ve done your homework.
•    Prepare meaningful questions to ask the interviewers.
•    Rehearse presenting your accomplishments, experience and skills.
•    Practice answering common interview questions.
•    Dress appropriately, show good manners and be conscious of your body language.

During group interview exercises, interviewers might closely observe and eavesdrop, ask and elicit questions, take notes, and maybe even interject a twist or two. Although the interviewers formed teams, you can bet that they’re scrutinizing individuals.

The skills measured during these exercises include
•    Interpersonal
•    Persuasion
•    Communication
•    Teamwork
•    Leadership
•    Organizational
•    Stress management

Remember each person has an agenda – it is up to you to zero in on that interest and make the most of it.
Respond initially to the panel interviewer who asked the question, but try not to get tunnel vision from anxiety.

As you proceed with your answer, also acknowledge the other panel interviewers by maintaining a comfortable level of eye contact. Scan from one pair of eyes to the next, pausing briefly on each or we simply used to say speak to the whole panel.

As you finish your answer, focus back on the interviewer who asked the question, and get ready to shift your attention to the next who speaks.

A good tip is to try to shake hands with each member of the panel before and/or after the interview if at all logistically possible.