How to shine during a group interview

Group interviews are a somewhat obscure concept to job applicants. What is their purpose? How will you be assessed? And how are you expected to stand out among a number of other candidates attending the same interview as you? Some might consider these types of interviews the lazy employer’s way to save time by batching many candidates together. But this isn’t exactly the case.

Why a group interview?

Group interviews are a way for employers to screen multiple candidates at once and assess skills such as communication, teamwork, decision-making and leadership. They are more common for client-facing roles, for example in retail, hospitality and food service, where such competencies are front and centre. This format is seen as a simulation of what the role will actually involve, and candidates are assessed according to how they perform under ‘realistic’ conditions. Group interviews might be conducted to evaluate candidates for one role, or for many different roles.

What should I expect?

The interview might involve common interview questions, and it might also include group tasks, such as problem-solving exercises. Anticipate questions that are intended to test how present you are in a group setting. For example: ‘Who would you hire out of this group and why?’ or ‘What would you recommend this candidate improve on to increase their chances of being hired for this role?’ Remember that you will be assessed both on how you carry yourself within a group and on how you interact with and listen to others.

How, then, can I stand out?

Group interviews can be challenging and stressful. To help you navigate this tricky scenario and impress the interviewers, here are some tips on how to prepare and perform well in this interview format.

First of all, do your research on the company and the role you are applying for. This will help you present yourself confidently and show your interest and enthusiasm. It will also help you cope with the pressure of being in a group of strangers, as you will have some background knowledge and expectations of what the interview will entail.

Be original: don’t just repeat what others have said or give generic answers; instead, try to showcase your unique skills and experiences that are relevant to the role. You can also build on someone else’s answer by adding your own insights or examples. This way, you demonstrate your ability to listen, cooperate and contribute to the discussion.

Take the lead. One of the skills that employers look for in a group interview is leadership. If you have the chance to take the lead in a question, an opinion, a point or a task, don’t hesitate to do so. This shows that you are proactive, confident and capable of handling responsibility. However, be careful not to dominate the conversation or overshadow the others. You should also respect the opinions and inputs of your co-interviewees and give them space to express themselves.

Finally, be a team player. Employers want to see that you can work well with others, even if you don’t know them or agree with them. Engage with your co-interviewees, using their names, acknowledging their points and supporting their ideas. Treat them as your teammates, not as competitors. By being a team player, you show that you are collaborative, adaptable and respectful.

Do you have an interview scheduled? Read more about how to impress employers in job interviews.

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