How to manage a panel of interviewers during a job interview

The best way to handle a panel of interviewers is to do it one at a time. The board or panel is not one entity, but rather a number of people who come together with the common goal of hiring the best candidate for the position. At the same time, each person has their own agenda or the interest of their department in mind. For example, the HR manager will make sure that you are a good fit with the culture and people who work at this company. The hiring manager will want to know about her technical skills or business knowledge. And the accounting person will want to know if you’re smart enough to handle a business budget.

Board or panel interviews are usually quite formal and organized, using a standard set of questions for all applicants. This type of interview is typically used in academia, government, or for high-level executives, but can be used for any other type of position in any company.

Another multiple-type interview is the team or “good cop/bad cop” interview. The team usually consists of two interviewers, one who asks the questions and one who takes notes. The two often swap roles, which can be confusing if they have different styles. In fact, one person can be kind and gentle and the other more harsh or pushy. Just remember, these inquisitors are working together towards the same end. Treat them equally, not favoring one over the other.

Regardless of the type of interview, the best advice is to prepare and practice beforehand. When you have your script written and rehearse your responses, you will feel prepared and more confident no matter how many people you have to face.

A good tip is to try to shake hands with each panel member before and/or after the interview, if logistically possible.

Lastly, remember to make sure you get each person’s business card, hopefully at the beginning of the interview, so you can address each person by name. And, when you write your follow-up/thank-you note/email, you can address each person correctly. When responding to a person, try to remember what you were particularly interested in when you asked questions or received your answer.

Remember that everyone has an agenda: it’s up to you to focus on that interest and make the most of it.