Preparing for panel interviews

Panel interviews can feel intense simply because of the number of people in the room. The good news: the format rewards preparation more than any other interview style.

Address the whole panel

When answering, make eye contact with the person who asked the question, but glance around the panel as you speak. Don't fixate on the most senior-looking person in the room.

Expect different question styles

Panels often split roles — one person asks technical questions, another asks behavioural ones, another is gauging culture fit. Notice the pattern and adjust your answers accordingly.

Take a beat before answering

A short pause to gather your thoughts reads as composure, not hesitation. It's far better than rushing into an answer and trailing off.