Ploymint

If after applying for a position you get called by a company to participate in a group interview, don’t just assume it’ll be the same as a standard one-on-one interview. To help expedite the interview process, some companies utilize group interviews to keep the applicants moving and to pick the best ones in a quicker time frame. With group situations, you’ll not just be evaluated on how well you answer the questions, but on how well you interact with others. Your best strategy is to pay attention to the questions asked and find a way to set yourself apart from the rest.

Group interviews are typically conducted in two ways. There is usually a panel interview where all candidates are asked questions and are expected to answer in front of one another, all answering the same questions. Then, there may also be a group activity followed by more questions about the group’s work. These can be trickier to answer.

Panel Questions

How would coworkers describe you? How would you describe yourself?

In answering this question, be honest. In a moment you’ll be able to demonstrate how you work with other people and you want your answer and your actions to be consistent.

What interested you in our company?

Don’t just say you like the company. Find something specific to talk about that shows you’ve done your research. Work your experience into the conversation as to how your interest relates with what you’re looking to do as your career. If you’re not the first to go, be sure your answer isn’t the same as another applicant’s.

How do you work in a team?

Again, be aware that you’ll be demonstrating how you work in a team so be honest. If you’re not really the “idea person,” but you’re great at the execution, mention that. Successful teams are made up of people who specialize in different skills. Hone in on how your set of skills can contribute to other personality types.

The Activity

Once the initial questions are out of the way, there will most likely be an activity. It can range from a simple task to a work-related task. Know what the interviewers are looking for. If it is related to the job (for example you need to make a sale or find a problem in the paperwork), pay extra attention to what you do. If you can complete the activity well, it shows how well you’re qualified for the position. However, don’t forget your team members. Everyone should play a role and the goal should be on completing the task together, not making the other applicants look bad. Play fair.

Activity Questions

How did you work together?

Each person will be asked the same questions so be sure to keep your answer true to what happened. If you did work well, mention why. Use examples and include the other applicants’ names. It shows you’ve been paying attention and made an effort to connect with your temporary teammates.

What did you contribute?

It’s important that you contributed something. You’re there to make an impression, to stand out. So the last thing you want to do is ride on the coattails of your team. This isn’t like a class project where only a few people do the work and everyone gets the same grade. Be active, play a role, and explain how what you did brought the team closer to its goal.

Did you struggle with the task? If so, why?

Not every group is going to work together well. That’s just how it is. Whether it’s a group interview or an assignment a group of employees has been given, there will be times when the team will struggle. That doesn’t mean you failed. In this case, note any struggles, why they were there, AND include how you were able to work around them. Mention the problem, but also the solution.

How did you deal with stress during your task?

This question can pertain to you individually and as a group. It can be a time crunch. It can be an idea that isn’t working out the way you wanted it to. Whatever the cause may be, stress can occur in group situations. Some people are able to remain calm and get the work done while others overcompensate, freak out, or back away from the project altogether. Be sure to send a positive message with your answer. Everyone gets stressed, but how we deal with it tells a lot about who we are as potential employees.

If you should happen to get selected for a group interview, keep in mind that the experience isn’t just about you, but about how you work with others. Be professional, courteous, and calm. Find a way to stand out without trash-talking the other candidates and you should be just fine.