Have you ever wondered why women in tech face unique challenges during panel interviews? What can be done to turn these obstacles into stepping stones towards success?
Panel interviews are common in tech. Multiple interviewers assess a candidate at once. This lets them see skills, personality, and how well someone handles stress.
But, as a woman in tech, I know it’s more than just knowing tech stuff. The tech world has fewer women now than before. In 1984, 37% of the tech workforce was women. Now, it’s only 25%1. Also, 50% of women in tech leave by 35, often because they don’t see a future there1.
Women feel more nervous before panel interviews than men. 70% of women feel nervous, compared to 57% of men2. So, we need ways to feel more confident and understand what’s happening.
In this article, I’ll cover panel interviews. We’ll talk about their structure and how to build confidence. You’ll get the tools you need to handle this tough part of the hiring process.
Key Takeaways
- Women hold only 26% of computing jobs in the U.S., reflecting a gender disparity within the tech industry.
- Technical interviews often encompass multiple stages, challenging candidates to perform under scrutiny.
- Effective interview preparation is key for women in tech, tackling both skills and confidence.
- Panel interviews are tough, with women facing 25% more questions than men, hinting at bias.
- Companies with diverse panels see more women accepting job offers.
Understanding Panel Interviews
Panel interviews are a special way to interview, where many people decide together if you’re right for the job. This way, everyone gets to see if you’re a good fit. It’s important to make a good impression because it can really help you get the job3.
Everyone looks at you from different sides. This makes sure you’re really checked out. It’s like getting a full view of your skills.
First, they check if you have the basic skills needed for the job. Up to 30% of the questions are about these skills, like in tech jobs4. This shows how important solving problems is, with 85% of interviewers looking for this skill4.
Knowing how panel interviews work can help you. It’s good to know about coding challenges and problem-solving. This shows you’re ready for the job4.
It’s also important to keep your coding skills sharp. This makes you feel more confident. It helps you do well in the interview.
Common Panel Interview Formats
When getting ready for panel interviews, it’s key to know the different formats you might face. Panel interviews usually have two or more interviewers checking out one candidate. This makes the evaluation process deeper and wider5.
Structured interviews are a popular choice. They are known for being the most accurate in predicting success6. This method keeps things consistent, reducing biases that can sneak into one-on-one talks.
Some interviews might include technical tests or presentations. These let candidates show off their skills5. This is good for both the company and the job seekers. Group interviews, where many candidates face off against each other, add a competitive edge5.
It’s important to understand the different types of interviews you might see. Structured panel interviews can combine several one-on-one chats into one, saving time for everyone6. But, they can also make candidates feel more nervous than usual5.
Preparing for Panel Interviews as a Woman in Tech
Getting ready for panel interviews is key for women in tech. It’s important to know the company culture and who I’ll meet. I look into the company’s values and past projects to understand its culture better.
Using the company’s website, recent news, and social media helps a lot. This way, I can talk about how I fit in with the company’s goals.
Researching the Company and Its Culture
I focus on how the company’s culture matches my values. This helps me explain why I’m a good match. Companies with strong cultures tend to have happier employees.
Meeting industry peers or going to tech events also helps. It gives me more insight into the company’s reputation.
Identifying Panel Members and Their Roles
I spend time figuring out who’s on the panel and what they do. This lets me tailor my answers to their interests. It makes my answers more relevant and shows I’ve done my homework.
Being well-prepared boosts my confidence. It helps me handle the panel interview better. Whether it’s about my technical skills or how I fit into the company culture, my research helps.
With only 28% of women in tech, standing out is important7. Knowing what the company values and who I’m talking to helps me succeed8.
Strategies for Building Confidence
Building confidence is key for panel interviews in tech. It’s normal to feel nervous. Deep breathing helps calm my mind and manage anxiety.
Being prepared with my materials makes me feel more confident. It helps me focus on doing well, not just on feeling calm.
Acknowledging and Managing Nervousness
Many women in tech feel isolated, which can make them doubt themselves before interviews9. Joining workshops or groups can help. It creates a support system and boosts confidence.
Sharing my experiences with others has helped me a lot. It has increased my confidence by 40% as I enter the tech world9.
Practicing Your Responses
Interview practice is essential. Using the STAR method helps me answer questions well. It shows my experiences clearly.
Building a portfolio with small projects can make me 35% more likely to get a job9. Showing my skills through real work boosts my confidence by over 50%9.
Communicating Effectively with the Panel
Doing well in an interview depends a lot on how I talk to the panel. It’s key to make a good impression on each interviewer. I make sure to look at each person, so everyone feels part of the talk.
My body language shows I’m confident and open. This helps me look good. I also ask the panel questions, showing I’m ready to work together.
Making Eye Contact and Engaging All Members
I try to connect with each panelist during the interview. Looking at each person shows I’m really listening. This is important because panel interviews let many people judge you at once10.
It’s good for employers because they get different views of you10. Before the interview, I learn about each panelist online. This helps me talk to their specific needs and ideas11.
Good communication helps me handle the stress of these interviews. It’s key to stay calm and focused. Deep breathing helps me relax10.
Writing down important points helps me remember what to say next. It also lets me ask smart questions later11.
My main goal is to show off my skills and have a good conversation with the panel. Panel interviews can be tough, but with the right approach, they can be great chances to shine12.
Questions Typically Asked in Panel Interviews
Panel interviews ask many common interview questions to see if I’m right for the job. They often start with “Tell me about a time when…” This helps show how I tackle problems and work with others. Using the STAR method helps me answer these questions well13.
Each STAR answer should have:
- Situation: 1-2 sentences about the setting.
- Task: 1-2 sentences about the challenge.
- Action: 3-4 sentences about what I did.
- Result: 2-3 sentences about what happened next.
Using this method, I like to talk about specific results, like a 15% sales boost13.
Getting ready with good questions can make me feel more in control. About 90% of hiring managers like it when candidates ask questions14. Women in tech who ask smart questions feel 35% more confident14. It’s also key to know what questions to expect, like about times I had to change plans13.
Being well-prepared can make me stand out. Asking 2-3 smart questions can lead to a job offer 20% more often14. By getting ready for common questions and asking about the job, I show I’m both skilled and interested13.
Tips for Presenting Yourself Professionally
When getting ready for a panel interview, looking professional is key. The right professional attire can make a great first impression. It helps me feel confident and makes a good impression on the interviewers.
Selecting the Right Attire
Choosing the right clothes is very important. Women in tech often face tough expectations. It’s important to pick outfits that look professional but also feel comfortable.
Things like tailored pantsuits or blouses with slacks are good choices. They make me look polished but also feel at ease.
Preparing Your Materials
Having your interview materials organized is just as important. You should have things like resumes, work samples, and presentation tips ready. Being well-prepared shows you’re serious about the job.
Studies say being prepared can make you 70% more likely to impress15. It shows you’re ready to fit in with the company’s values.
Aspect | Importance | Tips |
---|---|---|
Professional Attire | First impressions matter | Choose tailored, comfortable outfits |
Interview Materials | Reflects preparation level | Include resumes, portfolio, and relevant documentation |
Presentation Tips | Enhances audience engagement | Practice delivery, use clear visuals |
Overcoming Gender Bias in the Tech Industry
As a woman in tech, I face many challenges. The tech world has only 26% women in computing jobs. This shows a big gap and slow change, with just a 3% increase in a decade1617. Many women feel biased during interviews, with 63% saying they do16. Also, 50% of women have thought about quitting because of these biases17.
Understanding the Double Standards
Double standards make it hard for women to move up. Women get only 9% of promotions to manager roles17. But, companies that value diversity do better, showing diversity is good for business1617.
Connecting with Other Women in Tech
It’s key to have support networks. Talking to other women in tech can offer guidance and support. This is vital, as 70% of women with mentors got promoted, compared to 50% without17. Groups like Women Techmakers and IBM’s Women in Technology Network help thousands of women worldwide17. By celebrating each other’s wins, we can grow and reduce gender bias in our careers.
Post-Interview Follow-Up Best Practices
Following up after an interview is key to show I’m really interested. Sending thank you notes to the panel members shows my professionalism. It leaves a good impression and shows I’m grateful for their time.
The best time to send thank you notes is the same day or the next day. This shows I’m eager and respect their time. I should also send a follow-up a few days later if I haven’t heard back.
Studies show that getting specific feedback makes candidates more likely to apply again18. It’s important to stay in touch and check in after two weeks if there’s no news. This shows I’m really interested in the job.
Keeping in touch after the interview is a chance to say thank you, clear up any questions, and ask about my application. Following these interview etiquette steps helps me stand out. It also keeps me in their mind for future jobs.
Action | Timing | Purpose |
---|---|---|
Thank You Note | Same day or next business day | Express appreciation |
Application Status Check | Two or more days after expected communication | Show continued interest |
Follow-Up Email | Two weeks after interview | Reiterate interest |
By following up well, I show I’m really committed to the job and want to join the team19.
Conclusion
Getting through panel interviews in tech is tough. It takes smart planning and clear talking. Knowing that only 2 to 4 people make it to the final interview shows how key it is to have good strategies. It’s not just about tech skills anymore. Showing your soft skills like being accountable and solving problems is just as important2021.
Panel interviews usually last 40 minutes and have many interviewers. I need to talk well with everyone and keep the conversation flowing22. It’s also important to know about gender bias in tech. This can affect how interviews go. Working with other women in tech helps us all grow professionally.
By getting ready well and using my strengths, I can feel more confident in interviews. This helps me not just now but also in my future tech career2022. I’m looking forward to the chances for growth and success that are coming my way.
Source Links
- A Guide for Women in Tech – https://techguide.org/resources/women-in-tech/
- Interview Preparation Articles – IGotAnOffer – https://igotanoffer.com/blogs/tech
- Advice from CodeSignal CEO, Tigran Sloyan, on prepping for tech interviews & assessments – CodeSignal – https://codesignal.com/blog/interview-prep/advice-from-our-ceo-on-prepping-for-tech-interviews-and-assessments/
- 30 Technical Interview Questions and Tips for Answering – https://www.coursera.org/articles/technical-interview-questions
- How to Get the Most Out of a Panel Interview – https://www.ddiworld.com/blog/panel-interview
- Effective Panel Interviewing Strategies: A Guide for Employers and Candidates – https://vidcruiter.com/interview/panel/
- 50 Interview Questions & Answers for Women Exclusively [2025] – https://digitaldefynd.com/IQ/women-interview-questions-answers/
- 13 Must-Ask Tech Interview Questions – https://www.roberthalf.com/us/en/insights/hiring-help/7-must-ask-tech-interview-questions
- How to Build Confidence When You’re New to Tech – https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/how-build-confidence-when-youre-new-tech-dionne-condor-farrell-1zuie
- How to Succeed in a Panel Interview – https://www.coursera.org/in/articles/panel-interview
- 8 Tips on How to Prepare for a Panel or Group Interview [2024 Guide] – https://matchbuilt.com/blog/how-to-prepare-for-a-panel-interview/
- How To Conduct A Panel Interview In 2024 | Aaron Wallis Sales Recruitment – https://www.aaronwallis.co.uk/employers/advice/interview-best-practice/how-to-conduct-a-panel-interview/
- 30 Star Method Interview Questions & Tips to Ace Your Interview – https://www.betterup.com/blog/star-interview-method
- 70 Best Questions to Ask Your Interviewer – https://www.themuse.com/advice/51-interview-questions-you-should-be-asking
- How to answer the questions “tell me about yourself” in an interview ? – https://www.careervillage.org/questions/894077/how-to-answer-the-questions-tell-me-about-yourself-in-an-interview
- 10 tips to ace a job interview: a guide for women in tech – Women in Technology – https://www.womenintech.co.uk/10-tips-to-ace-a-job-interview-a-guide-for-women-in-tech/
- Women in Tech: Breaking Barriers and Building Careers – https://careerist.medium.com/women-in-tech-breaking-barriers-and-building-careers-421e85be197a
- 10 Best Practices for Conducting a Great Candidate Interview – https://blog.thecenterforsalesstrategy.com/best-practices-for-conducting-candidate-interview
- How to Write an Interview Follow-Up Email: Guide and Samples – https://www.coursera.org/in/articles/follow-up-email-after-interview
- 25 Final Interview Questions And Sample Answers – https://www.betterup.com/blog/final-interview-questions
- 25 Best Tech Interview Questions To Ask Technical Talent – https://www.hirewithnear.com/blog/best-tech-interview-questions
- How to Start an Interview as the Interviewer (With Sample Scripts) – https://www.4cornerresources.com/blog/how-to-start-interview/

Sadaf Sehar is the founder of Working Kitty, a platform dedicated to empowering working women. With over a decade of corporate leadership experience, she brings invaluable insights. Passionate about creating inclusive workplaces, Sadaf aims to guide women through workplace challenges. Her website covers dressing, work-life balance, career counseling, and more. Sadaf is a powerful advocate committed to helping women thrive professionally.