How to Succeed in a Panel Interview

What is a panel interview?

A panel interview involves two or more people interviewing you simultaneously. Panel members can include potential supervisors, managers, team members, HR specialists, and other company decision-makers. 

Panel interviews are common in many industries, including HR, marketing, and the corporate world, especially for senior positions with many demands and responsibilities. 

Employers typically use panel interviews for several reasons:

• Multiple decision-makers can meet you at once, which saves time in the hiring process.

• Decision makers can form their own impressions of you rather than getting secondhand information from a single interviewer.

• Employers can observe how well you can engage everyone in the room and handle stressful situations. 

When preparing for a panel interview, it can be helpful to consider some of the advantages of this interview format. For example, by meeting with a whole panel, you can potentially consolidate multiple rounds of interviews into a single experience. You can also gather multiple perspectives on the position you’re applying for. In addition, you can observe the interactions among panel members and get a sense of the company culture.   

A panel interview is one of several types of interviews you might encounter during your job search.

How to prepare for a panel interview 

The first thing to do is contact the employer and gather as much information as possible about the upcoming panel interview. Consider taking notes on the following:

• What are the names and roles of everyone who will be on the panel?

• What can you learn about each panel member through online resources such as blogs or the company’s website?

• How might you tailor your questions to the panel members? 

• Where will the panel interview take place?

• What topics will you cover in the group conversation?

• How will the panel structure the interview? 

• What will you need to bring, such as extra copies of your CV and work samples?

• Will you be presenting or performing a job-related task during the interview? 

Preparing for a panel interview is much like how you would prep for a one-on-one interview. For instance, you might research the company and reflect on how your qualifications match the ideal candidate. Anticipate and explore ways to answer questions the interviewer might ask you. 

Additionally, practice using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to formulate compelling stories about your prior experience. Prepare a list of questions to ask panel members so that you can gather the information you need to make a career decision and demonstrate your interest in the position. 

Then, use your research and notes to prepare your presentation or job-related task—if required. That way, you can tailor your material to the company’s mission and the position's requirements while leveraging your strengths. 

Rehearsing your presentation to friends or family might also be beneficial, so consider implementing their feedback. 

Panel interviews: Tips for success

After completing the practical interview preparation steps, your next effort should be to master a panel interview's emotional and interpersonal aspects. This way, you can clearly and confidently present your qualifications to the entire panel.

Consider the following tips: 

1. Acknowledge your emotions.

In the moments before the interview, acknowledge any nervousness about facing a group of decision-makers. This feeling is natural—even if you are confident about your qualifications and excited about the position you’re applying for. You might find it useful to do some deep breathing exercises or give your interview materials a final glance. 

2. Remember, this is your career decision, too.

Just as panel members will focus on finding the right candidate, set an intention of making the right career decision for you. When presenting your qualifications, delivering a presentation, or performing a task, look for opportunities to ask your prepared questions. 

3. Make eye contact with each panel member.

After introducing yourself to each panel member, remember to make eye contact and speak clearly and deliberately. Give all decision-makers on the panel equal amounts of attention, even if one of the panel members acts as a facilitator and others are less communicative than others. 

4. Set the pace for the entire conversation. 

Pause after each question and consider how you’d like to answer it. Listen carefully to all panel members, and take notes of everything that will help you make the best career decision. Ask for clarification when needed and take the time to deliver your answers. 

5. Prepare to follow up.

Before you leave, capture the contact information of each panel member and thank everyone for their time,  interest, and consideration.

Prepare more for your interview with Coursera

Much like a standard interview, meticulous planning and research are key to a successful panel interview. Once completed, follow up with panel members after the interview to express your enthusiasm for the role in question and ask when you can expect an update on the hiring process. 

As you continue along your career path, continue practising your interviewing skills with a globally available course, like Advanced Interviewing Techniques, offered on Coursera. If you’d like access to 7,000 other courses from top universities and companies, consider a subscription to Coursera Plus.

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