Group Interview

The group interview is a less common format but used by some companies to evaluate several candidates simultaneously.

Instead of one-on-one interaction, you will find yourself together with other applicants, often performing an activity or discussing a topic proposed by the interviewers.

Objective: To assess interaction, leadership and teamwork.

The main purpose of this format is to observe how you interact with others in a team context.

The interviewers want to assess your skills in collaboration, communication, leadership (if the opportunity arises) and group problem solving.

They are looking to see if you are able to work constructively with others, even if they are direct "competition" for the position.

Behavioral cues

To stand out positively in a group interview:

Be friendly and create a good atmosphere: Greet other candidates and interviewers, show a positive attitude.

Pay attention: Listen carefully to instructions and make sure you understand them.

Participate actively: Contribute ideas, share your opinion and contribute to the task or discussion. Don't be silent.

Listen to others: Don't just talk, show that you value and consider other candidates' ideas. Build on their input.

Focus on the group goal: Work together to help the group achieve the proposed goal. Individual success here often depends on collective success.

Be yourself: Although you must be collaborative, don't pretend to be someone you are not. Show your personality in a professional manner.

Consider leadership (if applicable): If a leader is asked for or the opportunity arises naturally and you feel comfortable, you can assume that role, but always in an inclusive and facilitative manner.

Mistakes to avoid.

Certain behaviors can seriously hurt you:

Passivity: not participating, remaining silent or showing disinterest.

Aggressiveness or Excessive Dominance: Trying to impose your ideas without listening, constantly interrupting or belittling the opinions of others.

Interrupting: Cutting off other candidates while they are speaking. Wait your turn or find a natural pause.

Deviating from the objective: Losing focus on the assigned task or taking the conversation to irrelevant topics.

Ignoring instructions: Not following the guidelines given by the interviewers.

Summary

This format is used to evaluate several candidates simultaneously by observing the interaction. The main objective is to see your collaboration, communication and leadership skills within a team.

To stand out positively, be friendly, participate actively and contribute ideas. Listen carefully to the other candidates and build on their input, always focusing on the group objective.

Avoid serious mistakes such as passivity or total silence. Also, do not be aggressive, domineering, or interrupt others. Ignoring instructions or straying from the topic will hurt you.