A group interview is a part of the interview process in which future coworkers might interview one candidate or multiple candidates might appear in the same interview. Unlike one-on-one interviews, group interviews involve two or more interviewers or interviewees. Hiring organizations might conduct group interviews if [teamwork](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/teamwork-vs-collaboration), [communication skills](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-improve-your-communication-skills), and overall personality are essential to finding the best candidate.

There are two main [types of group interviews](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/types-of-interviews). In panel interviews, multiple members of the hiring organization interview one candidate. In candidate group interviews, multiple interviewees will be in the same interview with one or more [hiring managers](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/hiring-manager-guide) or existing team members. Both interview formats enable the [hiring team](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/sara-blakelys-tips-for-hiring-a-team) to see how job seekers behave in group settings.
There might be different facets to a group interview. If you are going into an interview panel, know there might be anywhere from two to maybe eight people interviewing you. This can feel overwhelming if you didn’t expect it, so always prepare for more people. They might start by saying, “[Tell me about yourself](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-answer-tell-me-about-yourself),” so you should prepare for typical group [interview questions](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/collaboration-interview-questions) to more easily demonstrate you are a prepared and confident candidate poised for a new job.

If you are one of multiple candidates in a group interview, you and the other job applicants might do a work simulation activity. This means you might have to complete a task as a group, which will require your [problem-solving](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/creative-problem-solving), [decision-making](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/decision-making-styles), and teamwork skills. In such group activities, the goal is not to outshine individual candidates but to work as a team. If the company is hiring a new team, the interview might include current managers and associate-level employees so they can display [leadership skills](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/leadership-skills-explained) in work simulation exercises.
Generally, recruiters and hiring teams want to see how job candidates behave in larger groups and whether personalities and work styles match the [company culture](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/business-essentials-what-is-company-culture-and-why-is-corporate-culture-important). In discerning this, they will study more than just the answers—also the candidates’ tone, [body language](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-read-body-language), and overall energy.

If there are multiple interviewees, hirers might look at how well you work with fellow candidates and if you are a team player. This is an excellent opportunity to show off your [active listening](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-use-active-listening-to-improve-your-communication-skills) skills by not speaking over others when they are talking and also applying the [improvisation](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/natalie-portmans-top-5-acting-tips-for-improvisation) concept of “yes, and” to others’ ideas to show your collaborative nature. Instead of always having to be the person to answer first, know you can also respond to or uplift others’ contributions.
Prepare for a group interview in the following ways:

- __Arrive on time and have good manners__. Pick out your [interview outfit](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/interview-outfits) the day before, even for remote interviews, so you are ready before the interview starts. Speak clearly, use eye contact, and behave professionally to make a good impression.
- __Be a team player__. In some group interviews, you’ll be working with other potential candidates. Be patient, team-oriented, and flexible to display your strengths in group settings.
- __Familiarize yourself with the company website__. Get a sense of the company and its work style so you can ask the right questions and better understand the [organizational culture](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/organizational-culture-guide).
- __Review common interview questions__. Be prepared to discuss your work history, [personal development goals](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/personal-development-plan), and personality. In group settings, multiple people might be meeting you for the first time and will want to learn more about you.
- __Send a thank-you note__. After the group interview, send a [thank-you email](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/thank-you-email-after-interview) or [thank-you note](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/thank-you-note-after-interview) just as you would for a traditional interview. If you only have one interviewer’s contact information, you can ask them to kindly extend the note to the rest of the interviewing team and list them all by name.
All you need is a [MasterClass Annual Membership](https://www.masterclass.com) and our exclusive video lessons from the likes of Elaine Welteroth (the former <a href='https://masterclass.com/articles/how-to-become-editor-in-chief' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://masterclass.com/articles/how-to-become-editor-in-chief","linkCopy":"editor in chief","category":"automated-link"}' automatic='true'>editor in chief</a> of *Teen Vogue* and host of CBS’ *The Talk*), Issa Rae (the powerhouse multihyphenate behind HBO’s *Insecure*), Robin Arzón (the lawyer-turned-head instructor of Peloton), and other luminaries who have have embraced the twists and turns on the path to professional success. With their guidance, you’ll learn how to lean into your strengths, follow your heart, and build the career of your dreams. 
Know what interview questions to expect when going on a group job interview. You might meet other job candidates or multiple company members, such as the hiring manager or human resources team.

Know what interview questions to expect when going on a group job interview. You might meet other job candidates or multiple company members, such as the hiring manager or human resources team.

Group Interview Tips: How to Stand Out in Group Interviews

A group interview is a part of the interview process in which future coworkers might interview one candidate or multiple candidates might appear in the same interview. Unlike one-on-one interviews, group interviews involve two or more interviewers or interviewees. Hiring organizations might conduct group interviews if <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/teamwork-vs-collaboration' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/teamwork-vs-collaboration","linkCopy":"teamwork","category":null}'>teamwork</a>, <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-improve-your-communication-skills' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-improve-your-communication-skills","linkCopy":"communication skills","category":null}'>communication skills</a>, and overall personality are essential to finding the best candidate.There are two main <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/types-of-interviews' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/types-of-interviews","linkCopy":"types of group interviews","category":null}'>types of group interviews</a>. In panel interviews, multiple members of the hiring organization interview one candidate. In candidate group interviews, multiple interviewees will be in the same interview with one or more <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/hiring-manager-guide' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/hiring-manager-guide","linkCopy":"hiring managers","category":null}'>hiring managers</a> or existing team members. Both interview formats enable the <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/sara-blakelys-tips-for-hiring-a-team' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/sara-blakelys-tips-for-hiring-a-team","linkCopy":"hiring team","category":null}'>hiring team</a> to see how job seekers behave in group settings.

What Is a Group Interview?

There might be different facets to a group interview. If you are going into an interview panel, know there might be anywhere from two to maybe eight people interviewing you. This can feel overwhelming if you didn’t expect it, so always prepare for more people. They might start by saying, “<a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-answer-tell-me-about-yourself' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-answer-tell-me-about-yourself","linkCopy":"Tell me about yourself","category":null}'>Tell me about yourself</a>,” so you should prepare for typical group <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/collaboration-interview-questions' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/collaboration-interview-questions","linkCopy":"interview questions","category":null}'>interview questions</a> to more easily demonstrate you are a prepared and confident candidate poised for a new job.If you are one of multiple candidates in a group interview, you and the other job applicants might do a work simulation activity. This means you might have to complete a task as a group, which will require your <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/creative-problem-solving' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/creative-problem-solving","linkCopy":"problem-solving","category":null}'>problem-solving</a>, <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/decision-making-styles' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/decision-making-styles","linkCopy":"decision-making","category":null}'>decision-making</a>, and teamwork skills. In such group activities, the goal is not to outshine individual candidates but to work as a team. If the company is hiring a new team, the interview might include current managers and associate-level employees so they can display <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/leadership-skills-explained' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/leadership-skills-explained","linkCopy":"leadership skills","category":null}'>leadership skills</a> in work simulation exercises.

What to Expect in a Group Interview

Generally, recruiters and hiring teams want to see how job candidates behave in larger groups and whether personalities and work styles match the <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/business-essentials-what-is-company-culture-and-why-is-corporate-culture-important' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/business-essentials-what-is-company-culture-and-why-is-corporate-culture-important","linkCopy":"company culture","category":null}'>company culture</a>. In discerning this, they will study more than just the answers—also the candidates’ tone, <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-read-body-language' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-read-body-language","linkCopy":"body language","category":null}'>body language</a>, and overall energy.If there are multiple interviewees, hirers might look at how well you work with fellow candidates and if you are a team player. This is an excellent opportunity to show off your <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-use-active-listening-to-improve-your-communication-skills' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-use-active-listening-to-improve-your-communication-skills","linkCopy":"active listening","category":null}'>active listening</a> skills by not speaking over others when they are talking and also applying the <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/natalie-portmans-top-5-acting-tips-for-improvisation' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/natalie-portmans-top-5-acting-tips-for-improvisation","linkCopy":"improvisation","category":null}'>improvisation</a> concept of “yes, and” to others’ ideas to show your collaborative nature. Instead of always having to be the person to answer first, know you can also respond to or uplift others’ contributions.

How to Stand Out in a Group Interview

Prepare for a group interview in the following ways:<ul class="mc-m-4 list-styled"><li class="">Arrive on time and have good manners. Pick out your <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/interview-outfits' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/interview-outfits","linkCopy":"interview outfit","category":null}'>interview outfit</a> the day before, even for remote interviews, so you are ready before the interview starts. Speak clearly, use eye contact, and behave professionally to make a good impression. </li><li class="">Be a team player. In some group interviews, you’ll be working with other potential candidates. Be patient, team-oriented, and flexible to display your strengths in group settings. </li><li class="">Familiarize yourself with the company website. Get a sense of the company and its work style so you can ask the right questions and better understand the <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/organizational-culture-guide' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/organizational-culture-guide","linkCopy":"organizational culture","category":null}'>organizational culture</a>. </li><li class="">Review common interview questions. Be prepared to discuss your work history, <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/personal-development-plan' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/personal-development-plan","linkCopy":"personal development goals","category":null}'>personal development goals</a>, and personality. In group settings, multiple people might be meeting you for the first time and will want to learn more about you. </li><li class="">Send a thank-you note. After the group interview, send a <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/thank-you-email-after-interview' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/thank-you-email-after-interview","linkCopy":"thank-you email","category":null}'>thank-you email</a> or <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/thank-you-note-after-interview' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/thank-you-note-after-interview","linkCopy":"thank-you note","category":null}'>thank-you note</a> just as you would for a traditional interview. If you only have one interviewer’s contact information, you can ask them to kindly extend the note to the rest of the interviewing team and list them all by name. </li></ul>

How to Prepare for a Group Interview

All you need is a <a href='https://www.masterclass.com' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com","linkCopy":"MasterClass Annual Membership","category":null}'>MasterClass Annual Membership</a> and our exclusive video lessons from the likes of Elaine Welteroth (the former <a href='https://masterclass.com/articles/how-to-become-editor-in-chief' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://masterclass.com/articles/how-to-become-editor-in-chief","linkCopy":"editor in chief","category":"automated-link"}' automatic='true'>editor in chief</a> of Teen Vogue and host of CBS’ The Talk), Issa Rae (the powerhouse multihyphenate behind HBO’s Insecure), Robin Arzón (the lawyer-turned-head instructor of Peloton), and other luminaries who have have embraced the twists and turns on the path to professional success. With their guidance, you’ll learn how to lean into your strengths, follow your heart, and build the career of your dreams.

Ready to Start Designing Your Dream Career?

Know what interview questions to expect when going on a group job interview. You might meet other job candidates or multiple company members, such as the hiring manager or human resources team.

Know what interview questions to expect when going on a group job interview. You might meet other job candidates or multiple company members, such as the hiring manager or human resources team.


Five people in business attire sitting in chairs in an office awaiting a group interview