How to Kick Butt at Group Interviews

I have been in quite a few group interviews over the years now. When I went to my very first one, I was soo incredibly intimidated and frightened. I mean what better way is there to make yourself feel inadequate than comparing yourself to that gorgeous, hilarious, smart person right next to you that is also going for that job that you are! Dang it! You'll never get it now! If only they didn't apply!
My two jobs that I work in now, I got through a variety of interviews, including one group interview with the other potential candidates. I had been in group interviews before, when I was younger and a lot more timid, and I can say that it get's a lot easier! If there's one thing that I have learnt, no two interviews I have gone to have been alike. I'm sure that's not the case after you go to a lot of them. But I've been to maybe 10? They've all been super different. So here are my top tips, on how to Kick Butt (not literally guys...) at Group Interviews. 

Before You Go

These tips can generally be applied to any kind of interview, and they're always important. 

• Gather some general knowledge about the company and it's products. You don't want to look like a fool straight up. 
• Dress neat and appropriately for the job you're applying for, and do not be late!
• Make sure you have the necessary skills and qualifications for the job you're applying for! You want to stand out from the crowd. Careers Australia can help advance your skill set. 
• Have some answers in mind for general job interview questions, why do you want to work here, what are your strengths and weaknesses, why should we hire you? It might also help to think of some answers to unique interview questions that could set you apart and demonstrate your creativity and critical thinking. Looking these up beforehand can make a difference during your time there.

Waiting to be Interviewed

This is actually my favourite tip, and you do have to be chatty and kinda confident. (I believe in you!) Usually before a group interview you're sitting or standing in some general area with the other people that will be getting interviewed. Everyone is sitting around, staring at their phones or feet, nervously, awkwardly. Trying not to make eye contact with their competition. 

My number one tip? Start talking. Start making conversation about literally anything with the people around you. You already all have one big thing in common, you're after the same job, that's a good start! Talk about how nervous you are, how excited you are for this opportunity, how much you like the company. Introduce yourself to the other people, comment on their outfits, find out their names. You'll find that everyone will suddenly seem a lot less intimidating once they all seem less like strangers. I kid you not, once you head into that group interview room. You've already got an edge. You're the chatty confident one, who is going to swoop in and take that job. 

During the Interview

Now's your time to shine. Group interviews are all about how you act in a team setting, how well you communicate and how much you can stand out from a crowd. But in good ways. Now that you're in there, don't be loud and obnoxious. Listen to your interviewer, and don't chat to anyone while they're talking, or whilst anyone else is talking. It's rude.

"Who would like to go first?" Shoot your arm into the air! This is a question I hear at every group interview. They're saying who here is brave, confident, and knows what they're doing. It doesn't matter what it is, go first or at least attempt to go first. You're enthusiastic remember? Participate in everything, be friendly. 

There can occasionally be parts where they split you into teams for separate activities. There is always always someone who will bossily take over immediately. I'm not that person, because I don't just order people around. Maybe you do, that's okay too. Help out, speak up with your ideas, and make sure you're heard. Don't fade into the background, and don't let that self allocated team leader bring you down or steal your spotlight. 

Afterwards

You did it! It's over! Thank the interviewers. Wish the remainder of the group good luck. Leave there feeling positive. You did your best, now you just have to wait for that magical call and see if you've got the job! Or at least made it to the next round. 

 I actually have my very own job interview today! I'm only like mostly nervous, probably. Wish me luck!