The panel format is widely known in the academic environment, where its use is more widespread, since it is usually the preferred format for presenting new scientific studies or research advances.
In general terms we could say that a panel of experts meets, able to talk about a common theme and complement it from different areas, to expose this topic to an interested public. At first glance it looks like a round table format, but it is necessary to point out that these differ profoundly.
While in the round table somehow seeks to confront the opinions of other exhibitors, or present disjunctives in this regard, in the panel format the idea is to reach a consensus on the basis of the different contributions.
This format can also be used outside the academic context, mainly in work environments. The recruiters accustom to make use of it due to the advantages that it offers to allow a major interaction with the possible candidates for a position.
When the panel format is used in a job interview it can be done in two ways:
With a panel composed of members of the company and one of the candidates, to assess how this it would be inserted in the company and whether it could really fit into the same one but in a practical way.
With a panel fully integrated by potential candidates for a position, which will seek to recognize how these function as a core work but at the same time try to identify outstanding figures who are able to work in a group and at the same time stand out for their ideas or ability to present their views.
If you are in a job interview and asked to do it with this format, you may feel somewhat pressured at the possibility of having to speak to the public and expose your ideas. But the important thing is that you remember your goal: to achieve that job, so you must do everything possible to emerge victorious from this passage.
Here’s what you should do:
- Listen to each exposure that your teammates make.
- Seeks to complement what the rest says, but without repeating or reflecting that you are not clear what to say.
- Brings new ideas, especially if you see that all the presentations are toward the same direction.
- Dare to imagine possible scenarios or problems that could arise, and even raises its solutions.
- Always keep in mind your advantages in order to use them right now. If you consider that you are communicative will not do anything that they say, you must prove it.
Beyond these tips, what you should know is that you will not only be evaluated individually, but will also pay attention to your behavior within the group, so thinking only about your attitude will not be entirely successful. You must strive to show your best face in both contexts, both in group and individual.
