How to select the best from dozens of applicants? A group interview is not just a time-saver – it’s an opportunity to see the strongest candidates in action. This article gives you a ready-made interview structure, examples and practical tips from real-life experience.

In today’s labour market, speed and scale are becoming key indicators of selection efficiency. This is especially true in mass recruitment, where dozens or even hundreds of vacancies need to be filled in a short space of time, and a single recruiter is often on the verge of exhaustion. In such circumstances, group interviews are no longer a “trend” – they are a necessity.

Why companies choose group interviews

With dozens of applications per vacancy and high staff turnover, individual interviews become a waste of resources. A group interview allows you to assess several candidates at the same time and make more informed decisions.

The format allows:

– save time in the initial selection phase;

– see who can present themselves in a competitive environment;

– assess communication skills, initiative, group cooperation.

Particularly suitable for mass recruitment and for positions where customer service and multitasking skills are important: salespeople, administrators, service workers.

Group interview structure: step by step

Tested on more than 20 000 candidates, this three-step method provides maximum information:

Stage 1 – written questions

Candidates receive a writing pad and answer nine questions, such as:

– What motivates you at work?

– What do you think makes a successful sale?

– Why do some sell and others don’t?

The last question is a projective one, to help you understand the candidate’s values and thinking. The answers are not analysed immediately but are used in the individual interview.

Stage 2 – Group exercise

Candidates are divided into teams and given a practical task – a presentation, a game or a sales simulation. The recruiter observes who takes the initiative, who hinders, who helps the team.

Stage 3 – personal presentation

Each candidate speaks for 1-2 minutes about themselves. This allows you to assess your confidence, structure of thought, reasoning ability and public speaking skills.

Advantages of the format

– Quickly identify leadership and communication skills

– Comparing candidates on a level playing field

– Optimising time and resources

– Greater accuracy in selection results

Conclusion

The group interview allows you to simulate the working environment and identify the strongest candidates within a few hours. In one session, you see who can work in a team, who takes responsibility and who can persuade.

HR Line EU offers assistance in organising group interviews and developing an effective recruitment strategy. If you need to fill vacancies fast – contact us.