Methods Of Assessments For Group Interviews

What are the specifics of the various group interview formats? What can you expect? Below, we will highlight the areas you can expect to see at your next group interview.

Each company or small business conducts his or her group interviews in different formats. You may encounter the following processes at your group interview:

1. Assessments Related to Tasks
2. Assessments Related to Skills and Behavior — which may include the following:
   • Listening Skills
   • Problem Solving Skills
   • Decision Making Skills
   • Negotiation and Compromising Skills
   • Communication Skills
   • Leadership Skills
   • Analytical and Assessment Skills
3. Employer Assessments
4. Work Simulated Assessments

Each group interview will vary in the way it presents its activities or questions. For example, if you are applying for a position that involves fashion styling, you may be asked to showcase your apparel styling skills on a mannequin. Furthermore, you may role-play with other team members to solve a customer service issue, such as an irate customer or shoplifting.

Examples of Group Interview Questions

Your potential employer may pose questions to you as an individual or to the entire group. Below are some examples of questions you may encounter at your next group interview.

• “How would your other group members describe you?”
• “What did you individually contribute to the team?”
• “What struggles did your group face during the challenge?”
• “Tell me how your group worked together successfully to achieve the goal.”
• “What sets you apart from everyone else in the group?”
• “How would you describe your personal and future career goals? How would this position accomplish your goals?”
• “Describe yourself to your group members.”

Tips for Preparing for Your Group Interview

1. Do Your Research
As with any interview you are attending, it is important to prepare by doing your research on the company you are applying to. For a group interview, it is important to know what others have said about not only the company’s reputation, but also the overall interview process. Glassdoor is a fantastic website that gives you former and current employee perspectives as to what you may expect at your interview.

2. Be Prepared
Practice your interview questions with a friend and prepare your own set of questions for the interviewer. Do not memorize word for word what you are going to say. Be personable and creative in your responses. Think of a response that will highlight your skill set, but make you stand out from the rest of the group.

Areas to Avoid at a Group Interview

1. Interrupting Applicants
2. Criticizing Applicants
3. Over-aggression
4. Passiveness
5. Uncooperativeness

Tips for Success at a Group Interview

1. Be Positive
2. Be Patient
3. Demonstrate Your Listening Skills
4. Be Timely in Your Responses
5. Be Polite
6. Demonstrate Your Leadership Skills
7. Share Your Ideas
8. Respect Your Group Members
9. Compliment Your Team Members

Group interviews are unique as they present many more sets of challenges and distractions when interviewing with other individuals. The pressure is more intense, as you are competing with many other individuals and need to be certain your voice is heard clearly. By following the advice and tips above, you will be able to differentiate yourself from the rest of the group.