10 Typical Group Interview Questions and Answers

Group interview questions are often used as an initial screening tool to select candidates for a second, one-on-one job interview. The types of interview questions are usually general and not specific to the technical aspects of the job opportunity.

The main purpose of group interviews is to determine qualities like :

• 
  communication skills and interpersonal ability
• persuasiveness and the
  ability to influence others
• leadership and delegation

Other competencies assessed during a group interview include
problem-solving and planning skills, stress-tolerance and the ability to
work and contribute effectively as a team member.

Typical Group Interview Questions and Answers

Expect some debriefing-type questions. These common group interview questions will most likely be asked in a group situation after the team exercises have been completed.

1. What made this team work successfully?

Refer to aspects such as:

• the good use of available resources
• the management of obstacles
• successful team communication
• use of initiative and support
• encouragement of each other

Focus on the approach the team took and acknowledge the contributions of individual members.

2. What was your personal contribution to the team's performance?

Refer to your strengths such as:

• planning and organizing
• analyzing and problem-solving

Support your answer with specific examples of how you used these strengths to contribute to the team. What special role did you play and how was your contribution received by the team?

3. Why did this team struggle to accomplish the objective?

Refer to the reasons why things did not go according to plan, give specific examples.

Demonstrate that you have been able to realistically analyze the situation and explain what you would have done, with hindsight, to improve the situation and deal with the problems the team experienced.

Show an ability to offer solutions, not just to point out the problems.

4. How did you deal with the stress created by meeting the challenges?

Describe the specific steps you took to remain calm and controlled. Focus on skills such as planning, flexibility, communication and discipline.

5. How would the other team members describe you?

Refer
to the positive reactions your experienced from other team members.
Support your perception of how you came across with examples of
observations or remarks made by the team.

Personal Group Interview Questions

These are designed to get to know you as an individual may be asked on a one-to-one basis during the group interview process.

6. How would you describe yourself?

Avoid just repeating what is on your resume. Focus on highlighting your skills in a positive and job-relevant way. Try to set yourself apart from the other candidates as the most suitable person for the job. You need to think about the job requirements and emphasize your fit with these needs.

You can mention observations others have made about your strengths and abilities to reinforce your answer. View Employee Strengths and Weaknesses

Group Interview Questions - Motivation

These group interview questions explore your personal motivation for the position.

8. What about this position appeals to you most?

Give specific examples of why this position and company excite you.

• refer to the positives you have learned about the organization and the job from this group interview process
• think about how you can prove your passion and interest for the position
• why would you prefer to work for this company rather than their competitors

Use your background research to prepare for group interview questions like this. Use the excellent online resources listed at  "I have worked as part of a
team on a number of projects and received positive feedback about my
role and contribution. Particular mention was made of my ability to
initiate new ways of looking at the challenges and problems and then
encouraging contributions from other team members."

Think about your strengths and the benefits they bring to the company and position.

Give proof of what you can offer to excel in this job. "My problem-solving ability has been put to the test many times. For example, ...."

Discuss your specific qualifications for the job. Always refer back to your enthusiasm for the position.

Excellent example interview answers to Why should we hire you?

Also prepare for these group interview questions

Get sample answers for common group interview questions including:

What are your strengths and weaknesses?

How do group interviews work?

Find out what to expect in group interviews, how they are structured and how you will be evaluated during the interview.

How do group interviews work?

What questions should I ask in my group interview?

Have a couple of good questions ready to ask in your group interview. You can use these examples of smart questions to ask:

• What are the immediate priorities in this position?
• What key challenges will a new recruit face in this job?
• What are the top skills needed for successful job performance?
• How is performance measured in this job?
• What do you like most about working for this company?

Interview questions to ask the employer

How do you stand out in a group interview?

Set yourself apart from the competition by having planned and practiced for your group interview. These group interview tips will help you.