How thou prepare?

I received a call today from a potential employer. He said he had reviewed my resume and wanted to set up a meeting. After a sigh of relief, it hit me that I was back in the job interviewing process. It’s that stomach crunching, sweaty palm time when you need to become your biggest fan and explain to a company why you’re better than the rest. I already feel my nerves buzzing.

In our brief phone conversation, the employer asked that I bring along some samples and any other material that would help him get to know Karin. It’s the first time I’ve been told to do that so I must wonder – what else should be included on top of a portfolio?

I feel lucky to say that I have never had a really bad interview – I have had bad nerves, studdering words and a bit of a ramble here and there, but I’ve been pretty fortunate. However, that doesn’t mean I am any less scared, intimidated or worried about the interviews to come.

So for my fellow classmates, I’ve compiled some interviewing tips that you will hopefully find useful:

RESEARCH:

We’ve been told this in almost every class since we started at Centennial. Take the time to research the organization, learn about your audience and determine your key messages. With research comes confidence.

REMIND YOURSELF OF YOU

Although this seems like a bizarre slice of advice, it’s surprising that most of us can’t talk about ourselves. Think back to media relations last term when Christine asked us to write a 30 second speech about ourselves. Following the grumbles, how many of us couldn’t think of something right away? Well in an interview, we don’t have the leisure of pondering questions for 15 seconds before we say the first words. Determine not only who you are, but who you want to show in an interview. What are your best qualities and how do they align with the job you’re going for?

PRACTICE:

This requires a friend, family member or classmate. Reading questions off a piece of paper and reciting them in your head is completely different than speaking out loud – especially with another person in the room. A partner can give you great feedback and offer suggestions on how to be more clear, concise and appealing.

BE YOURSELF

This is perhaps the tip that I live by the most. Don’t try to dress, speak or behave in a way that isn’t natural. I fear that if I acted differently in an interview and got the job, I would need to continue the facade. Being honest and genuine does the trick.

For example, I once mentioned my love for tea in an interview, which sparked a ten minute long discussion with the head manager about which teas were my favourite and which ones I would recommend. I was hired the following day.

For what they’re worth, these are my tips. I’d love to hear yours!