Committee and Panel Job Interviews

Unlike the One to One or Telephone interview format, Panel (committee) Interviews are conducted by more than one interviewer. This type of interview format is fairly stressful for an interviewee due to the fast pace and need to impress each member of the panel. This interview format is becoming more commonplace in the corporate world because it saves the job applicant and prospective employer both time and money.

When you walk into the interview room, make an effort to shake the hand of each panel member and make good eye contact with them. You need to try and build a rapport with each interviewer and hopefully in your interview preparation you have found something out about each interviewer so you can tailor your response to Interview Questions specifically to that person.

Here are some more tips for panel/committee interviews:

1. Prepare Thoroughly. Find out in advance the names and job titles of the panel members and research their role within the company.
2. Practise a mock interview with friends or family so you are comfortable answering difficult questions under pressure.
3. Take several copies of your CV just in case the panel members do not have one each.
4. When in front of an interview panel, try not to talk just to the interviewer who asked the question. Acknowledge all the panel members during the duration of the interview but always finish answering a question looking at the person who initially asked it.
5. At the end of interview, shake hands with everyone. End the interview by telling the interviewers that you have enjoyed the interview and look forward to an opportunity to work with them.
6. Send a thank you email to each panel member after the interview.

Read more interview hints and tips or find out about other interview formats.