Tips for Interviewing in Groups

Group interviews are becoming more popular as a method for companies to hire new candidates. They regularly consist of group tasks and team-building exercises.  Group interviews allow prospective employers to see how you work with other people, how you think independently and how you hold your own in a group situation - 3 things which are essential for a high-quality team member. 

Here are our top tips for interviewing in groups. 

Be productive 

It’s a common misconception that interviewers are looking for those who are extroverted and talk a lot in group settings - but this really isn’t the case. In fact, a great group has a good mix of personalities, so if you’re a little less confident with speaking up naturally, then you can still successfully navigate a group interview with ease.

If you find that you’re naturally extroverted, are comfortable in group settings and are a confident speaker - it’s important to work on not dominating the conversation, bringing other more introverted members of the group into the discussion and knowing when to step down.

If you’re perhaps a bit more shy and don’t wish to speak in front of others too much - then immediately be productive and assign yourself a role within a group interview setting. Perhaps you can volunteer to be the time-keeper for group tasks, showing initiative and taking a more proactive stance. Alternatively, volunteering yourself to be a note-taker is another great way of showing initiative. You can feed back the notes before you present or discuss as a group, you can listen, share and take your time to form your own opinion while writing down the opinion of others. 

Consider devil’s advocate 

Demonstrating that you can consider multiple angles when finding a solution to the problem is a vital skill that employers will be looking for - so it’s important that you consider devil’s advocate when interviewing in a group setting.

Without being argumentative or criticising the opinion of others, you can raise valid counter-arguments or points to consider, or perhaps even offer the suggestion of an alternative opinion, saying something like ‘what do you think about the potential point of x?’, ‘have you considered x as a potential alternative angle?’ or ‘do you think there’s any validity in the following point x?’

It shows employers that you’re thinking on your feet, it’s a sophisticated debate technique and can also open the floor for some great discussions. 

Back yourself 

In group situations, it’s quite natural for the more confident members in the group to dominate the conversation. A great way to ensure that you make a good impression is to back yourself no matter what - even if more extroverted members are hogging the floor a little. 

Remember that your opinion is valid, that prospective employers shortlisted you as well as more confident members of the team, and they’re looking to hear what everyone has to say - that means you too. 

Don’t be scared to voice what you feel - even if that might be a little different to other members of the group. 

Look out for others 

To reiterate something we touched upon earlier, prospective employers are looking for self-awareness in group interview settings - but also for the awareness of others. 

If you see someone struggling to contribute their opinion, or perhaps shying away from discussion, asking their opinion subtly or inviting them into the conversation is a great way to ensure everyone gets a fair chance to talk - but also a great way of making sure you stand out for being conscientious too.

Follow these tips and any future group interviews should be a breeze.