Panel Interviews

A panel (or selection board) interview is conducted with more than one person from the company in attendance. The panel often consists of the departmental manager, a member of human resources, a manager from a different department that may have close links with the job in question, and possibly a team member. Panel members usually take it in turns to ask specific questions regarding their area of interest, although a less structured approach may also be taken. The chair of the panel generally makes the initial introductions and the final remarks; however, never assume that they have the greatest influence in making final decisions.

Although this style of interview may seem daunting, it tends to be fairer and more balanced than a one-to-one interview. However, it can be very difficult to build a rapport with all of the panel members, and you may find it difficult to know who to address your remarks to.

Focus on the person talking to you and listen carefully to their questions. Direct your answers to the person who asked the question. When you have finished answering a question, glance around the other panel members to show you are ready for the next question.

This style of interview may be used to gauge the applicant's reaction to stressful situations, so remember to keep calm and try not to be unnerved by the panel. It is a good idea to treat the experience as if you were in a one-to-one interview; concentrate your attention on the questioner and reply and address your comments to that person. Only include the other members when you are ready to continue with the next question. Pace yourself, take one question at a time and give clear, direct answers.

You should bear in mind that responses and further exploratory questions from the panel may not be forthcoming; either because of limitations of time, or because of the way that the interview is structured.

Try to be put off by any signals that members of the panel may make to one another; these are very unlikely to be related to you or your performance, but rather to do with concerns such as time and order of questions.

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