Firms such as call and contact centres who recruit large numbers of staff love group interviews as they’re a great time saver.
Bosses can play Sir Alan Sugar for the day, assessing large numbers of candidates in one go by putting them under pressure in a competitive situation.
There’s no getting away from it, group interviews can be intimidating.
Everyone’s sizing each other up, trying to make a good impression while figuring out where they stand in the competition.
The secret to success is making yourself stand out from the crowd without trying to overshadow other candidates.
To do this there are a few key strategies you can use. Here are five top tips to help you shine.
Go in with a smile
You may be hating every second but be positive, open and honest. Be truthful about being nervous. Call centre bosses want the kind of personalities that translate well over the phone so above all be friendly and approachable.
Prepare an ice-breaker
You’ll most likely have to introduce yourself to the group so rather than thinking on your feet, prepare a few lines about yourself. Not your life story or a stand-up comedy routine but a potted history and what’s led you to the interview is a good start.
Make your voice heard
Don’t be the loudmouth or the know-it-all but try not to be the shrinking violet either. We all have a tendency to speak for the sake of saying something but in a group interview situation it often pays to listen first . . . then make a more useful contribution later.
Do a bit of role play
Ahem, no, not that kind of role playing! Consider the kind of exercises you might be expected to perform, such as dealing with a difficult customer or managing a team. A popular task at group interviews is for candidates to interview the person next to them before presenting your findings to the room – so it’s worth trying this with your other half/friend/anyone down the pub.
Take everything in your stride
Sometimes group interviews involve creating something out of Lego. No seriously! It’s all about displaying teamwork and co-operation. Similarly, if you get asked “What’s your favourite colour?” and “Why?”, don’t snort with derision. Try to come up with a coherent answer. Blue . . . because blue sky thinking opens up solutions to customers’ problems!
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