4/21/2011

Can anyone working in Human/Social Services/Mental Health have any tips for a panel interview?

Can anyone working in Human/Social Services/Mental Health have any tips for a panel interview?My boss recently offered me a Case Manager Position, and I have not recieved any degree yet. I am attending online classes to get my AA in Psychology; Though honestly, I don't feel qualified enough to do the job and knowing that there are other candidates with degrees and more likely they posess more experience, makes me think that all I have left is a good d impression. It is very difficult because one of the interviewers has never aknowledged my presence, and she is extremely intimidating. In addition to that, this will be the very first time her attention will be directed towards me, so is there anything I should learn by Monday? I can say that I have an advantage of being the last person to be interviewed; because everyone is interviewing back to back all this week. In order to calm my nerves I'm telling myself, "Save the best for last huh?" In reality though, I am scared to death!

Answer by michele
The fact that your boss is encouraging you to attend this interview is an EXCELLENT sign. Organizations are often much more inclined to hire from within than to take a chance on someone from the outside.

Capitalize on what you DO know. You KNOW the organization. You know your current job. Mention little specifics that reminds the panel that you're an "insider", so to speak. If you have any past work reviews from supervisors that speak highly of your ability - bring those with you to the interview.

Highlight your drive for improvement - both self and organization. Work in to the conversation the fact that you are taking steps to improve your knowledge and credentials. Mention that your work and personal life are similar, in that you are always striving to improve.

If you can - try to contact someone else in the organization who already holds a similar position. Ask them what they like and do not like about their job. Ask them what they think would be some of the most important qualities of a person who holds that position. Then use that info in your interview - it will make it appear as though you are genuinely interested in the position, and motivated to pro actively take steps to find out more about it.

Be as personable as you can. Try to connect with one or more panel members on a more personal level (even something as small as a shared interest in a sports team or your kids attend the same school, etc). The fact that you are the last interview definitely does work to your advantage. You will have the recency effect working for you.

Best of luck in your future vocational endeavors,
~M~

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