What is a group interview?

Question

I have a group interview next week at a daycare. I have never been to or heard of a group interview before. What exactly is it? Do they interview the whole group together, or is it individually? And what should i expect? If anybody can offer any advice i would really appreciate it, i really need this job!!! 10 points for the most informative and helpful answer!!

Answer 1

Hi there --

Good question! I would recommend clarifying with your potential employer if "group" interview means they will be interviewing multiple candidates at one time, or if they will be interviewing only you (but having a team of people asking you questions). If you will be interviewed by a group of people, ask how many will be on the interview committee. Don't be shy about calling them to clarify so that you can be confident and prepared when you arrive (knowledge is power!).

If you will be interviewed by a team of people, be sure to take a copy of your resume for every person (that's why you need to know how may people will be interviewing you). You may be sitting across a table from your interviewers, or at a conference table. Each person will have several questions that they'll ask.
When answering, make eye contact with that individual, but also be sure to make eye contact with everyone else. Don't forget to SMILE.

If you will be interviewed along with several other people, make yourself stand out from the crowd by dressing for success, taking several copies of your resume, introducing yourself and shaking hands without waiting to be asked your name, and eagerly answering questions without interrupting other candidates. Showing appreciation for other candidates' answers also shows you are an empathetic listener and are supportive and caring -- attributes a daycare center would specifically be looking for.

After the interview, be sure to send a handwritten thank you note the same day. I'll bet you get hired right away!

Good luck!!

Answer 2

Basically they will interview a couple people at the same time. There are few reasons for it - 1) it speeds up the interviewing for the day care 2) they see how you interact with a group
What you need to do to stand out - is when they ask a question, if it is ask to the whole group, answer first. They want to see that you are out going, able to interact in a group. Just don't sit back in your chair and wait.

Good luck!

Answer 3

Instead of just one person interviewing you, there will likely be 3-4 people in the room with you. They'll take turns asking you questions and you will prob. have an opportunity to ask any of them questions. Really it's no big deal when compared with a one-on-one interview. And it gives you an idea about how the people you might work with interact (they'll talk to each other as well as with you). I'd recommend you prepare for the interview as you would any other interview. Good luck!

It just occurred to me that this interview might also include other job candidates (so more than one job applicant in the room as well). It wouldn't hurt to call and ask for more detail.

Answer 4

It will just be you interviewed by a group of people. Possibly cow-workers or just managers. Each will ask you specific questions. Be sure to make good eye contact with the entire group, be very personable but not too over enthusiastic. Sit up straight and dress appropriately.

Answer 5

It could be there will be alot of teachers or whoever doing the interview, and it save times for them. and it can be alot of other applicants in the same room. Dont expect nothing go in there and be confidence in yourself. answer the question honestly and if you have any questions ask them and don't be afraid. be the first to answer . and most of all be yourself, dress nicely and if you have a resume bring it along with you, tell them about yourself what is your goals and that. and be relaxed. good luck on the job,

Answer 6

When more than one person interviews you.