Panel interviews are a job interview format that is quite challenging because you have to face more than one interviewer at once.
Even though it looks intimidating, you can conquer the this event with the right preparation and strategy.
This article will discuss in full, starting from the definition of an interview panel, tips for success in carrying it out, to examples of questions that often arise.
Come on, listen and prepare yourself well!
Reported from the page Airswift, panel interview or panel interview is a type of job interview that involves several interviewers in one session.
These interviewers usually come from various departments, such as HRD, potential direct superiors, and team members who might work with you.
The goal of this interview is to gain a comprehensive view of candidates and evaluate whether you fit the work culture and team needs.
Panel interviews are often conducted in person (face to face), but can also be conducted in person via Zoom, Google Meet, or phone.
Need to know panel interviews are different from group interviews.
In a panel interview, one candidate is interviewed by several interviewers. Meanwhile, in a group interview, several candidates are tested simultaneously.
Even though it seems stressful, you can increase your chances of success by applying the following tips when facing an interview panel.
When entering the interview room, greet each panel member with a friendly smile and greeting.
When answering questions, try to maintain eye contact with the entire interviewer, not just the person asking the question.
Remain calm and professional throughout the interview. Don't rush in answering questions.
Take a deep breath if necessary, then answer with a steady tone of voice and an open attitude.
Your answer should be clear, concise, and directly answer the question asked. Avoid long-winded or overly broad answers.
If necessary, rephrase the question to make sure you understand the interviewer's meaning.
Bring supporting documents such as portfolios, certificates, or examples of relevant work.
This concrete evidence will help convince the panel that you do have the required abilities.
At the end of the session, you are usually given the opportunity to ask questions.
Use this opportunity to ask strategic questions such as the team's work culture, the boss's leadership style, or the latest projects the team is working on.
The success of a panel interview is largely determined by how well you prepare. Here are some important steps that need to be taken:
Find out the company's vision, mission and work culture. This information can be your weapon in tailoring your answers to suit the company's values.
Reread the job description thoroughly. Understand the skills required, main responsibilities, and targets of the position you are applying for.
Practice answering common interview questions like “Tell me about yourself” or “Why do you want to work here?”.
Use the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method to answer experience-based questions.
If possible, find out who will be interviewing you. Check their LinkedIn to find out their background and role in the company. This will help you adapt relevant language or case examples when answering.
Below are some examples of interview panel questions that often arise and how to answer them well.
Example answer:
“I am a content writer with more than 3 years of experience in the digital industry. I like challenges, have a great attention to detail, and enjoy working together in a team. I am confident that my experience and abilities can contribute to this team, especially because I know this company places a high value on effective communication, which is also my main strength.”Example answer:
“I was interested in working here because the company's values that emphasize innovation are very aligned with my principles. I want to be part of a team that creates a real impact on society through relevant and useful products.”Example answer:
“I always try to understand my colleagues' points of view before making a decision. Once in an SEO content project, the designer and I had a difference of opinion regarding visualization. I invited discussions and finally we came up with a solution that combined both ideas, and the client was very satisfied.”Example answer:
“I am used to using prioritization and time management methods. Usually I make daily and weekly to-do lists, and set internal deadlines to keep work organized.”Example answer:
“I like a work environment that is collaborative and open to ideas. In my opinion, open discussions produce innovative solutions and strengthen the sense of ownership of the work.”Example answer:
“It's very comfortable. I actually get a lot of energy from the dynamics of teamwork. I enjoy discussing, learning from each other, and solving problems together.”Example answer:
“On the website rebranding project, we only had two weeks to complete all the content. My team and I divide tasks strategically, set daily milestones, and carry out regular evaluations. As a result, we managed to complete the project on time and received praise from the client.”Panel interviews do have their own challenges because you will be assessed from various perspectives simultaneously.
However, with thorough preparation, a professional attitude, and a good communication strategy, you can conquer it and leave a positive impression in the eyes of all interviewers.
Hopefully the examples of interview panel questions and tips above can help you be more confident when facing your next important interview session!
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