The way we behave and act during a panel interview can make or break our chances of landing that job, so we’ve to be extra careful about the simplest things we might be doing unconsciously, like fidgeting with a pen or repeatedly scratching an arm.
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Of course, these are not aspects of etiquette entirely, and most interviewers will not fault the interviewee for being a bit nervous. Yet body language is important, and the path toward getting hired begins with thorough mindfulness.
Greet everyone as your or they enter the room. Stand up if you’re first in the room and give each panel member a firm handshake. Show a sincere smile despite any feeling of nervousness.
Avoid closing your arms and slouching while being asked questions, as these can likewise exude insecurity. Sit straight without looking rigid. Even as your arms are kept open, keep your legs held together. This will make you exude an air of both confidence and professionalism.
During the actual interview, never rush to answer questions. Wait patiently for each question to finish, collect your thoughts, and reply without stuttering and stumbling. Project your voice as you answer, without shouting, so that everyone can hear you clearly.
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Of course, don’t take too long to answer. Focus on each individual question and don’t get caught up overexplaining even if you’ve felt your answer was incomplete. Finally, thank everyone individually and shake hands anew after the panel interview is done.
My name’s Larry Polhill, a retired career consultant from Arizona. I understand the daunting tasks that hiring managers and recruiters face, so I continue to offer insights for jobseekers to get ahead. More on my work and interests here.
