Rather than fearing the panel interview, think of it as an opportunity for you to meet all the decision makers in one setting so that you don’t have to drag out meetings and perhaps deal with awkward gaps in the conversation. Remember they are on the panel because they all want to hire the best person for the job. They already believe that you might be that ‘best’ person. You have already passed the first test – your CV impressed them, now you just need to be able to talk about your experience.

Usually it is a mixture of relevant specialists - human resources, line managers etc. and can vary in number anywhere from 2 to 8 people. Each person will have his own department’s interest at heart.

Try to find out beforehand who will be on the panel and make sure you know their names and job titles prior to the interview. Try phoning the company, usually the human resources department, and asking for this information.

Why a Panel Interview?

This type of job interview is simply often considered a more time-efficient process for the employer. A number of those involved in the decision-making process from different parts of the organisation can interview the candidate at the same time, only one job interview is needed.

Panels are often convened simply to get a wider range of views about potential recruits without having to keep inviting candidates back, or so that clinical or technical care staff and their HR colleagues can compare notes on the same interview performance. Job interviews conducted by a panel are seen to be fair and valid as a number of different opinions and views are taken into consideration when making the hiring decision.

Think positive: only if they liked you would they commit the time of so many of their key people.

What Happens at a Panel Interview?

These interviews tend to be formal and organised with a standard set of questions for all candidates.

Each panel member will take turns to ask questions relevant to their interests and after the interview the candidate can be discussed and rated from each member's perspective.

Prepare yourself to talk about: yourself, your experience and your-long term goals.

Make eye contact with each and every one in the panel. Look at the person who has asked you the question and then, after making a point, slowly shift your eye contact to the other members of the group. As you finish your answer, focus back on the questioner.

Before you leave shake hands with all the panel members. This will help you make a smooth exit and wrap up the interview to a polite close.

Panel Interview Advice

Why a Panel Interview?

What Happens at a Panel Interview?