Group Interview Tips

Group job interviews are conducted by employers while handling a large number of candidates. Group interview is an economical technique to sieve the candidates on the basis of their skills.

Candidates have to carry out exercises planned by the employers in a group. These exercises can hardly be anticipated and hence, it is difficult to prepare for a group interview. However, these general tips apply to every kind of group interview that you may face.

General Group Interview Tips

When in a group, it is imperative that you follow certain rules. Group exercises generally include solving a hypothetical or a work related problem. Arriving at a solution needs a lot of brainstorming, team work, group interactions, display of leadership qualities, eliminating and accepting ideas etc. Remember that even if you are in a group, you are being individually observed and evaluated at every stage.

Be courteous to everyone around you. Break the ice by introducing yourself to the fellow candidates to help to perform better during the exercises.
Listen to every instruction carefully and execute them for effective results.
Dynamic participation is very much expected of a candidate. If you remain passive and be a mute observer, you will miss an opportunity to showcase your skills.
All the same, active participation does not mean you have to dominate every discussion. It is important to listen and understand others' perspective and ideas too.
Avoid being stubborn and forcing your opinions on others. If you think you are right, try to convince your group members of your views in a polite manner. Learn to compromise and accept others' ideas with an open mind.
Similarly, disagreements should be handled with care. In a group, there are bound to be some difference of opinions. Targeting the problem and collectively arriving at a solution would be the ideal approach. Make sure you do not let aggressiveness and arrogance take over you.
Appreciate a good suggestion and encourage taking steps in that direction.
Constructive criticisms are welcome. Frame your feedback in such a way that it instigates a new thought process without offending any of your team members.
Avoid ego clashes, power conflicts and unnecessary stressful outbursts. You are required to work as a team. Thus, think of how you can lead the team to a positive outcome.
Prepare a list of insightful questions to be asked. This demonstrates that you have keenly participated and have an individual point of view.
If an interviewer directs a question at you, try to reply to it as accurately as possible. Keep your details short, but make sure your reply answers the question completely.
Work as a team, but make sure to elevate your individualism.
Follow these tips to ensure a fruitful result at a group interview. Your key to success is your confidence, competence and professional behavior.