For April Fools’ Day: here’s how NOT to be foolish about interviewing.
I recommend doing “mock” interviews with a trusted mentor or coach. Practice as though it’s the real thing and get specific and direct feedback on how you present yourself.
Through doing “mock” interviews with clients (who successfully won jobs), I’ve found some key practice questions that are particularly helpful. These are questions for teaching jobs, but can be adapted to other types of work.
1. Why are you interested in working here? [Make sure you’ve done your homework about the institution and what makes it distinctive—be able to reflect these qualities back and explain why you value these.]
2. Why should we hire you? What relevant skills, qualities, and experience would you bring to this position?
3. What is your teaching philosophy?
4. What would you do to recruit students?
5. Describe a challenge you’ve had in teaching—and how you overcame it.
[Before any interview, have two or three concise and relevant anecdotes ready to use. These should reveal how you work and the results you get. Choose wisely: these should highlight your values, judgment, and capacity for growth.]
For this week: Put yourself in the role of the interviewer. If you were hiring someone to do your current job or freelance work, what questions would you ask?
PS: Doing this exercise should help you appreciate—and own—your skills, abilities, and experience!
SPECIAL: FREE UPCOMING WEBINAR
“Presenting Yourself! Perspectives & Strategies for Self Promotion and Branding” is a Polyphonic.org event I’m doing on Mon. April 22 at 8 pm with two other fab presenters. I’m hoping you’ll join us online for this event!
Curious about working with me? Details are HERE.
Dream big, Plan smart, Live well!
