5 Tips to Help Stand Out in a Group Interview

Jennifer Wagner
** Previously published on List My Five.

Group interviews are becoming increasingly popular, as they help to reduce interview time and help the potential employer see how you perform in comparison to other applicants. Here are five tips that will help you stand out in a group interview.

Group interiview tips - # 1 - Be Assertive

There is a fine line between being assertive and dominating the group interview. It's important that you find this line and walk it gracefully. During the group interview, you'll want to stay engaged, ask questions, and be the first to offer information about yourself and your abilities.

Group interview tips - # 2 - Be Unique

During a group interview, you'll all be asked the same questions. Each person is given a chance to answer and it is IMPERATIVE that you make your answer as unique as possible. In other words, if you are asked the question, "Why should we hire you?" Do not reply with the same answer everyone has already stated. Give reasons that no one else has, and it will help you stand out in a group interview.

Group interview tips - # 3 - Make Them Remember You


The way you dress may be enough to help you stand out in a group interview. Obviously, you don't want to go 'all out' and dress provocatively or outlandishly. But...you can help stand out from the others by wearing something unique. Most people will dress very conservatively during a group interview, which is fine. But, if you do something with your wardrobe to help them remember you, you may increase your chances of being hired. For example, war a unique colored shirt, or a shirt with a slight pattern. Then, when your potential employer reflects on the group interview, you will be remembered as 'the one in the paisley shirt'.

Group interview tips - # 4 - Be a Team Player


While being assertive is an important part of the group interview, you also want to show that you are a team player. Therefore, give others the chance to express themselves during the question phase of the interview and encourage them. Nod in agreement when another interviewee makes a statement you agree with, and make eye-contact with them just as you do with your potential employer(s).

Group interview tips - # 5 - Research the Company


Before your group interview, do a little research about the company you are applying with. When appropriate, drop a few of the facts in the conversation. This will show your potential employer that you have done your homework, and care about the company.

Knowing a bit about the company beforehand will also give you a few clues about how to conduct yourself in a positive way during the group interview. For example, if you find out that customer service is the company's top priority, you can express how important quality customer service is to you!

More from Jennifer Wagner:

Make Money Writing for Break Studios

10 Worst Domain Names of All Time

Eco-Friendly Office Tips


SOURCE:

Personal knowledge and experience

Jennifer Wagner - Yahoo! Contributor Network

http://www.listmyfive.com/18504b13/The-Top-Five-Group-Interview-Tips

Published by Jennifer Wagner - Featured Contributor in Lifestyle

Ever since I read my first Judy Blume book as a little girl, I have wanted to write. Whether it's giving my opinion, making someone smile, or reviewing a product, writing makes me happy. My primary are...  View profile

15 Comments

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  • Thomas Lane4/23/2011

    Those sound like some good ideas for any group situation.

  • Michael Segers4/20/2011

    Great tips for surviving what must be a hideous experience.

  • Sheila Carroll4/19/2011

    Good tips.

  • Sandy James4/19/2011

    Great tips!

  • Jaipi Sixbear4/19/2011

    great pointers

  • Abby Greenhill4/19/2011

    sounds good

  • Carol Roach4/19/2011

    well done, I am a week behind in my work due to the computer crash

  • Sherri Granato4/19/2011

    Sound advice.

  • Charlie K4/19/2011

    Good advice

  • Walton S. Tissot4/19/2011

    interesting

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