Awful Interviewers
You don't mind answering questions at length, but you'd like to find out a little bit more about the position. Yet, your attempts to open dialogue are not generating responses. Since you can't force the Silent Type to open up, and you don't want to upset the person, it's best to try to get additional details from other sources.
From the moment you walk in his office door, this person can barely focus attention on you long enough to ask a question. Between taking phone calls and talking to employers who poke their heads in for a "quick answer" to a problem, your interviewer has only managed to find out the name of your last employer.
This person is probably more nervous than you are. The First-Timer is likely extremely organized and has a list of questions, all of which must be asked and answered in order. He or she is not at all interested in non-scripted details: When you offer insight into an accomplishment you thought stood out from the rest, the hiring manager just nods politely and moves on to the next question, all the while taking comprehensive notes.
5 Pointers for Group Interviews
A multiple-person interview may seem more nerve-racking than a one-on-one meeting, but it's a prime opportunity to showcase your strong leadership, communication and teamwork skills. Here are some tips to help you shine:
1. Get the lay of the land
A group interview can involve multiple job candidates, as well as multiple hiring managers. So, once the meeting begins, try to read the different personality types in the room. Don't assume the person who is quietly observing possesses no clout; often, the least talkative person is the ultimate decision maker. You can get a sense of the hierarchy by observing whom your interviewers make eye contact with as they speak; typically, employees will watch for their managers' reactions to what they are saying. Regardless of who appears to be in charge, show equal respect and professionalism to everyone in the room, including other applicants.
2. Assert yourself
If the interview is structured as an open dialogue, make sure your voice is heard -- but never at the expense of interrupting others, which is a sign of poor sportsmanship. If you have something meaningful to say and someone else is speaking, wait your turn. At the same time, avoid dominating the conversation -- another sign of poor team play.
3. Show grace under pressure
Because there are multiple people being interviewed, you may not have much time to formulate your responses to questions posed by an interviewer. If others start chiming in, and you're still considering your answer, resist the urge to immediately insert your thoughts; a poorly phrased answer can do more damage than saying nothing at all.
4. Expect the unexpected
With more than one person vying for the spotlight, don't be surprised if someone makes your point first. If this happens, think of a statement that adds to the conversation; this will show the hiring manager you can listen well and think on your feet.
5. Up the ante
Interviewers often favor candidates who ask meaningful questions because quizzing a prospective employer shows that applicants are genuinely interested in the organization and have done their research. Posing insightful questions is also an easy way to stand out in a group interview, since some candidates will likely arrive unprepared. To develop thoughtful questions, study the job description and research the company beforehand.
