Group interviews usually involve many people in the room. Under these conditions, a tense and competitive atmosphere tends to create a sense of nervousness. However, you can definitely handle it if you're prepared for the unexpected. Apart from being well prepared, one of the critical success factors for your success is the ability to present yourself as a top candidate.
Step
Method 1 of 2: Prepare Yourself the Best You Can
Step 1. Search the internet for detailed information about the company
In addition to accessing the company website, look for information from other websites that discuss the company's activities, for example by reading articles from new websites, even from websites of competitors in the same industry. Look for information about the company, for example: financial performance, company history, and major profits (or losses). Find out the philosophy that underlies the company's goals, for example by reading the results of interviews with key position holders who have and are still working at the company and their biographies.
Step 2. Read the information about the position you are applying for carefully in detail
Before going through the interview, prepare yourself as best you can in anticipation of being asked to describe the job you are applying for. Prepare an explanation to show that your skills and background meet the required criteria for employment.
Think of ways to prove that you have the skills needed to fulfill the duties and responsibilities of the job you are applying for. This requires lateral thinking to show that your background knowledge and experience can be applied to your new job, even if you occupy a different position from your previous job
Step 3. Prepare a “2 minute presentation” to briefly explain your educational background and experience, career goals, and why this job fits your life goals
Practice first by giving a presentation to friends.
Step 4. Conduct a simulated interview
Invite friends or family members to do a simulated group interview. Have them make spontaneous presentations and ask you questions. Decide who will be the interviewer and who will be interviewed as competing candidates. After that, give each person a job description and a series of questions. While trying to answer questions, pay attention to the answers they give and the interview situation during practice. Even though it's just a simulation, you can gain useful information and insights if your friends/family members do their best.
Method 2 of 2: Having an Interview
Step 1. Arrive early to the interview venue
You have an advantage over other candidates if you arrive at the interview site early because you have the opportunity to meet the interviewer, observe the surroundings, and prepare. Keep in mind that other candidates will probably do the same. Introduce yourself when you meet them (read next step).
Step 2. Introduce yourself to the other candidates before the interview begins
Be polite and have a short chat to show friendliness and a team spirit.
- Remember that other candidates will want to prepare just as much as you. So, don't keep grabbing their attention.
- If the other candidate wants to keep talking, is being arrogant, or even looks like he's trying to bring you down, politely and assertively say that you want to prepare for the interview and then find a quieter place.
Step 3. Be polite to other candidates during the interview
One of the purposes of group interviews is to observe how candidates interact with one another. Therefore, be polite to fellow candidates.
Step 4. Demonstrate readiness and alertness
Group interviews are interactive so you need to participate. Also, focus attention during the interview because a lack of participation or enthusiasm will be seen by the interviewer.
Step 5. Read carefully the instructions given
The interviewer will usually provide an outline explanation and provide detailed instructions. Occasionally, candidates will have the opportunity to attend training and receive step-by-step job guidance during group interviews. For example: you must be prepared if asked to promote certain products according to company manuals so that you can successfully make sales transactions.
Step 6. Be tactful
Interviewers will look for candidates who have leadership, but this doesn't mean cutting other people off or speaking the loudest. Instead, be a facilitator, for example by saying, “How about we have a vote?” then hold a vote count. This way shows confidence and a willingness to hear other people's opinions.
Step 7. Give a turn to someone else
One aspect of leadership is the ability to delegate tasks to others. A good leader will not do all the tasks alone. Work performance will be better if you are able to coordinate with other people. If allowed, record detailed information.
Step 8. Make occasional eye contact with the audience
Deliver the presentation to the audience as a whole, instead of just focusing on a specific person.
Step 9. Engage quiet candidates
If a group member seems less proactive in the discussion, ask them to give their opinion. This way shows that you are a thoughtful person and care about your teammates. However, don't invite other candidates if you get the chance to speak.
Step 10. Give praise when someone else has a good idea
This method makes you seem friendly and charismatic.
Step 11. Don't be shy to talk
When it's your turn to speak, don't interrupt the other person's conversation or exceed the time allotted for asking questions. If small groups are formed, there will be people who come occasionally to hear what you have to say.
Step 12. Don't forget to smile
Even if the atmosphere is stressful, you won't be hired if you look down.
Step 13. Say goodbye to the interviewer before you leave
As a follow-up, send a letter thanking you for the opportunity and time given.
Tips
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You can ask or say:
- "Good idea! Who else agrees with this idea?”
- "Shall we hold a vote? One, two, three… yes, this is the most choice. Did everyone agree?"
- "What do you think about this?"
- "He's doing X. It's best if we do Y so that all tasks can be done quickly."
Warning
- Remember that a job interview is not necessarily a one-off. Sometimes, group interviews are continued with the next interview.
- Don't be angry or rude to people who are monopolizing the conversation or for any other reason!
- Don't be disappointed if you don't get hired as group interviews usually involve around 20 candidates.
