What Are Panel Interviews + How To Prepare For Them
                     What Are Panel Interviews + How To
Prepare For Them
Learn how to ace a panel interview with tips on preparation, common questions, and
strategies to field the expectations of multiple interviewers.
Youʼre excited because you've just been invited to an interview for an employer you'd like to work
for. You go through the email and realise that the invite is for a “panel interview” and that multiple
people are added to the invite. Donʼt let the idea of a panel interview overwhelm you. While you will
interview with more than one person, the core themes wouldnʼt change. This guide will walk you
through everything you need to know about panel interviews and how you can prepare to ace them
with confidence.
Original Article: What Are Panel Interviews + How To Prepare For Them
What is a Panel Interview?
A panel interview is when two or more people conduct a simultaneous interview with a single
candidate. These interviews are typically longer and are organized closer to the final hiring
decision. Panels often include key decision-makers and are common across various sectors,
especially for senior positions and graduate schemes. The setting allows employers to observe how
you handle high-stakes situations, test your soft skills under pressure, and reach a consensus on
their hiring decision more quickly.
Why Employers Schedule Them
Efficiency and scheduling: Saves time by assessing candidates with multiple key stakeholders
at once.
Consistency in evaluation: Ensures all decision-makers assess a candidate under the same
conditions.
Testing cross-functional fit: Reveals how a candidate handles diverse perspectives.
Early team introductions: Provides a chance for candidates to meet future colleagues and
managers.
Preparing for a Panel Interview
The preparation is similar to a one-on-one interview, but you must tailor your responses for a
diverse audience. Be ready for technical and behavioral questions.
Key Preparation Tips:
Understand Your Audience: Clarify the names, roles, and backgrounds of everyone on the
panel. Research each person's career path, publications, and social media activity.
Prior Research: Learn about the panel members and find authentic talking points. You can
reference shared interests, recent work, or company alignment.
Give a Strong Self-Introduction: Begin by thanking the panel and repeating their names.
Structure your introduction like an elevator pitch, highlighting your background and motivation for
the role.
Practice Active Listening: Listen carefully to each question, take notes, and make even eye
contact with all panellists, even when answering one person's question.
During the Interview:
Balance Your Engagement: Share eye contact evenly across the panel, regardless of who is
asking the question.
Have a Strong Closing: Thank the panel for their time and reiterate your enthusiasm. In informal
settings, you can politely ask if you can connect on LinkedIn.
Bring Extra Documentation: Always carry multiple copies of your updated CV, portfolio samples,
and business cards for all panellists.
After the Interview:
Follow-Up Thoughtfully: Send personalized thank-you emails to each panellist within 24 hours.
Mention something specific you discussed with them to jog their memory.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a panel interview last?
Typically 45 to 90 minutes.
Whatʼs the difference between Panel vs. one-on-one interviews?
A panel interview involves multiple interviewers at once, requiring you to engage with a diverse
group.
Is a panel interview hard?
It can be intimidating, but staying calm, authentic, and prepared is key.
Is a panel interview a good sign?
Yes, it generally means you are being seriously considered for the role and have progressed to the
final stages of the hiring process.