Friday, September 9, 2011

Down to Business (pt.4)

This is nothing groundbreaking, but I wanted to post some thoughts on interviews. Feel free to chime in if you have any comments. If you're getting ready for recruiting events, fancy dinners, or a formal interviews, remember that preparation makes a huge difference! The ability to communicate cohesively "who you are, where you've been, where you are going, etc." is extremely valuable. And you'll need some time to reflect, synthesize, and even calculate what terminology you want to use.

This can be complicated, especially if you're making that "transitory" descent after a life-changing two-year, non-profit, faith-based, not-always-but-often-hyphenated, rotational leadership development program in southern California. Okay, let's face it. There is nothing even quasi-intellectual about the content of this post (or anything posted on blog for that matter). In fact, you're probably laughing at me right now.

But anyway, just keep in mind...


  • An interview is basically just a scripted conversation. It's not so much about answering the question correctly or incorrectly. It's about your ability to communicate that you have the skills and abilities that they want. Don't count on your ability to instantly scan you your entire life for an impressive story while you stall with "That's a great question." I've made that mistake.
  • That said, you already know what they want to hear: "How have you overcome adversity; what are your strengths, weaknesses; recount some experience of working in a team environment and...."
  • But let's pretend that instead of an interview, you are asked to give a presentation about your qualifications and experiences. It's open-mic and you're up. So, what do you say? 
  • And that's my point. In your original preparation don't worry so much about their questions or how you will answer. Imagine you're in a vacuum:  create your answer first, and then consider how you will link it to their questions. Pick two or three of your most impressive experiences or accomplishments - the things for which you would  kick yourself after the interview if you didn't mention - and consider carefully how you would communicate them. 

Happy hunting....

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