Panel interview

[SoilderofLove]

I will be partaking in a panel interview next month and would love a little input of anyone who has participated in this type of interview. Personally, I've only been involved in one-on-one interviews.

[sheronep, MSN, RN]

I did a panel interview. It speeds up the hiring process.

[mustlovepoodles, RN]

I had a panel interview when I interviewed for my current job. Be sure you make eye contact with every panel member. When you answer questions be sure you first address the questioner, but also look at the others as you explain yourself. They will probably ask you some "what would you do if?" questions and some "tell me about a time you did..." The questions can be tricky. Sometimes the answer will be "well, it depends on what your hospital policy dictates." Be prepared for "tell us about yourself." They don't want to hear about your kids or your spouse/boyfriend. Give them information which plays to your strengths, like volunteer work, service work, etc. If they want to know what you do on your off time, be cautious. Don't give them too much personal information. They want to know what your healthy habits are. "Watching TV" and "making pictures from colored beans" probably won't win you points. The panel wants to see some enthusiasm and strength. Go in there and show them that you can do this job. Tell them that you *want* the job. Sometimes a candidate is so nervous they forget to smile. They clam up and only answer exactly what they ask, as though it was a criminal investigation. You want them to see you as competent and mature, so no giggling, gum, or leg jiggling. Sit up straight and lean slightly forward to indicate interest. Be sure you shake everyone's hands and get their names when you walk in. Then shake their hands when you leave and thank them for their time. Tell them that you look forward to hearing from them.

I know that some of this seems basic, but you'd be surprised at the ways that people sabotage their own interviews. A panel interview *is* a little more complicated than a single interview, but IMO, it gives the interviewers the chance to get to know you. Instead of your future resting on the opinion of one person, you have a group who will discuss your merits(or non-merits) and I think it gives you a better chance of being accepted. Good luck!