6 Tips to Make a Lasting Impression During a Panel Interview
When you have a job interview coming up, it’s important to ready yourself to the best of your ability. Showing up with your resume in hand is one portion of primping process, but there are so many other things to take into consideration. Depending on the type of interview you are having, which you can review in 6 Types of Interviews, you will want to make sure you are focused, prepared and confident. Let’s get you ready to show your potential new employee just how professional and great of a fit you are!
Be prepared. The Panel Interview.
The panel interview has a lot of similarities to a one on one interview, but can be more overwhelming with multiple company representatives asking you questions. Let’s make sure you are prepared as possible so as not to feel like a deer in headlights.
- Take scribbly notes. When you go around the table and are introduced to the number of people present, scribble their names while they are introducing themselves to you. Try to keep eye contact throughout and only glance down quickly to make sure you aren’t writing on the table and so they know you are paying attention.
- Have enough resumes on hand. You may not know how many people will be present, so make a number of copies of your resume. Ideally everyone will already have a copy on hand but you should still have enough just in case.
- Ask questions. When it’s time for you to interview them, ask the same question (as it pertains) to each interviewer present. While they speak, keep eye contact, do not interrupt and engage if you have a follow up question.
- Time is of the essence. A panel interview is typically done to save money and time. But it doesn’t mean they have all the time in the world. Take into consideration that they have meetings after your interview and other responsibilities. Essentially, take your time, but hurry up.
- Follow up. Do your best to acquire everyone’s emails and correct spelling of their names. Send them each their own individual thank you letters or emails and reference some of the notes you took to give it a personal touch.
- Review. Refer to the blog entry “8 Tips to Nails a One on One Interview.”
It’s impossible to please everyone, so don’t take it personally if everyone doesn’t adore you or realize you are a humble superstar. Maintain your integrity and be kind to everyone (including yourself).