The board or panel is not one entity, but several individuals coming together with the common goal of hiring the best candidate for the job!
However – in many cases each person has his own agenda or her department’s interest at heart.
The HR Manager will be checking to make sure you are a good fit with the culture and people working at this company. The Hiring Manager will want to know about your technical skills or business know-how. The person from accounting will want to know if you are savvy enough to operate a business budget.
Board or panel interviews are usually rather formal and organized, using a standard set of questions for all applicants. Sometimes called A Standardized Interview.
This type of interview is typically used in academia, government or for high-level executives, but can be used for any other type of position – in any company.
Another multiple-type-interview is the team or “good cop/bad cop” interview.
The team is usually made up of two or three interviewers:
– one who asks the questions – one who takes notes – if there is a third – does a bit of both or sometimes just stares at you.
They typically trade roles, which can be confusing if they have different styles.
In fact, one person may be kind and gentle and the other more harsh or pushy.
Just remember, these inquisitors are working together toward the same end. Treat them equally, not favoring one over the other.
Regardless of the type of interview, the best advice is to prepare and practice beforehand. When you have your script written and have rehearsed your answers, you will feel prepared and more confident no matter how many people you have to face. .
Remember each person has an agenda – it is up to you to zero in on that interest and make the most of it.
