Interviews are a pivotal and often the most nerve-racking part of a job search. Just making it past the resume review and initial screening is an accomplishment, but you still have much to do to receive an offer. When interviewing, many firms will often have you participate in a panel or group interview where you will be interviewed by a few members of the team all at once. While this can be unfamiliar and seem daunting, making a strong impression can be even more important to ultimately securing an offer. . To make a great impression take these tips into consideration, and you will be able to take command of your panel interview.

Preparation - Like any interview, it is important to be well prepared. Candidates should have a thorough understanding of the opportunity that they are interviewing for. Not only should you thoroughly look over the job description, but you should have researched the firm, the team, and specifically, the bios of the people that will be on the panel. Reach out ahead of time so you know who will be on the panel. Linkedin in addition to the firm’s website is a great tool to utilize when preparing for interviews as it allows you to gain a better understanding of a firm, and gives you a snapshot of the team and their stories and experiences. You can find if you have similarities with those on the panel to then bring up in conversation.

Questions - Asking questions is an excellent indicator that you are well prepared as well as curious and invested in the position. As you research, develop a few thoughtful questions to ask during your interview that will help you gain a better sense of the opportunity, give you insight on the team and/or culture, or inquire about how you would fit into the opportunity based on your experience, growth track, or other factors. Try to have one question for each member of the panel.

Presentation - Confidence is key! Walk confidently into the interview room and introduce yourself individually to each of the panelists. Remember a strong handshake and eye contact. Simple body language indicators such as strong posture and eye contact can communicate your level of interest in an opportunity. Ensure that you tell your story assuredly and answer any questions thoroughly. Make sure to vary your eye contact and make eye contact with each of the panelists as if you were doing a presentation in front of a large audience even if only one is doing the majority of the talking.

Gathering Information - The goal of the interview is for the firm to be able to get to know you, your story, experiences, and abilities. It is just as important for you to be seeking the same information from the team members that you interview with. During the interview, it will be helpful to show initiative with your curiosity and recordkeeping. 

• Taking Notes - Interviewing with multiple people at once can be an overwhelming amount of information to digest and retain. During the interview, make note of specific topics of interest, important things to know, and areas that you may have questions about and/or want to research more. Taking notes is an intentional way to display your commitment to learning and remembering the information that you gain in the interview. Notes that you take during the interview can help you keep track of who you met, what you spoke about and give you specific topics of conversation to include in your follow-ups. 
• Developing Professional Camaraderie - Be yourself! The ultimate goal of the interview aside from you and the firm getting to know each other is connection. Your ability to connect with and relate to the interviewers will help them imagine you as a team member as well as someone who would potentially service their clients. While remaining professional, remember to be relatable and realistic. 

Next Steps - When the interview is coming to a close, ensure that you know your direct point of contact. While it is important to follow up with each person to thank them for their time spent with you, you specifically want to know who will be corresponding with you on the next steps as well as who any additional questions may be directed to. Within 24 hours of the interview, send a thank you email to each member of the interview panel.

Commanding a panel interview starts with preparation and confidence and concludes with follow-through. Remember, the people on the panel want to see you succeed. It is imperative to understand all there is to gain from multiple perspectives within a prospective firm, and how this can be helpful for yourself and the firm in deciding if the opportunity is a good fit for you.

If you are entering the financial planning profession or seeking the perfect fit with a top-tier financial planning firm, submit your resume here or peruse our openings for entry-level planners. We are here to help you in any way we can so you can secure your dream position!