How To Handle a Panel of Interviewers During a Job Interview

How To Handle a Panel of Interviewers During a Job Interview
The best way is to handle a panel of interviewers is to
take them on one at a time. The board or panel is not one
entity, but several individuals coming together with the
common goal of hiring the best candidate for the job. At
the same time, each person has his own agenda or
department's interest at heart. For example, the HR manager
will be checking to make sure you are a good fit with the
culture and people working at this company. The hiring
manager will want to know about your technical skills or
business know-how. And the person from accounting will want
to know if you are savvy enough to operate a business
budget.

Board or 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.

Another multiple-type interview is the team or "good
cop/bad cop" interview. The team is usually made up of two
interviewers, one who asks the questions and one who takes
notes. The two typically trade roles, which can be
confusing if they have different styles. In fact, one
person may be kind and gentle and the other more harsh or
pushy. Just remember, these inquisitors are working
together toward the same end. Treat them equally, not
favoring one over the other.

Regardless of the type of 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.

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.

Lastly, remember to make sure you get each person's
business card, hopefully at the beginning of the interview,
so you can address each person by name. And, when you write
your follow-up/thank you note/email you can address each
person correctly. When responding to an individual, try to
remember what he or she was particularly interested in when
they asked questions or received your answer.

Remember each person has an agenda - it is up to you to
zero in on that interest and make the most of it.

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Carole Martin is a celebrated author, trainer, and mentor.
Carole can give you interviewing tips like no one else can.
Get a copy of her FREE 9-part "Interview Success Tips"
report by visiting Carole on the web at
http://www.interviewcoach.com