How to Ace a Panel Interview for a Professional Position
A panel interview is a performance, similar to giving a presentation—the same guidelines apply. Think of yourself in the role of an expert being asked for advice.
[edit] Steps
- Address the people interviewing you as if they are your clients or customers.
- Pretend that you are the expert addressing a group, and that the people questioning you want your advice and have no power over you.
- Keep your mind from wandering as you pay full attention to the questions asked of you.
- Give positive examples of your experience when asked.
- If asked about your weaknesses, offer a response that has a positive influence on your work, such as, "I am meticulous about details so I sometimes work on my own time to make sure I provide excellent quality and meet deadlines—my life partner thinks I work too much, but my customers and managers appreciate that my projects require no rework and I feel accomplished and energized by it." Then stop talking.
- Breathe deeply and regularly during the interview, allowing your abdomen to expand as you inhale while your shoulders remain level.
- Maintain a tall posture with shoulders back.
- If you are seated, fold your hands across your lap and place your feet flat on the floor.
- Be still—avoid jittery or repetitive movements.
- Relax during silence—speak briefly only after you are asked for information then stop talking and wait.
[edit] Tips
- Dress comfortably in loosely-fitting clothing appropriate for your job.
- Wear comfortable shoes and make sure they are clean and in good condition.
- Smile
[edit] Warnings
- You may be asked the same question more than once in different words to see if you'll give a different answer. Preface your response with, "As I said earlier…" and repeat your answer from the last time you were asked this question.










