Opening Tactics
The opener of an interview is a moment to express yourself in a manner that is practiced beforehand and will allow you a few seconds to compose yourself and get a read on your interviewer. This stage is often called your “30 Second Commercial/Elevator Pitch”. You should practice this with the following points often so that it flows naturally and comfortably like it’s second nature to you.
- Full Name
- Academic or Professional Identity
- Something from your past like a qualification or experience.
- Something about your future, such as goals or interests.
The Midgame
Here’s where we need to secure our position. Have two solid stories you can communicate to your interviewer(s). Practice makes perfect so get someone (or a rubber duck, see figure 1.) to listen and get used to being looked at while you do it.
The presence of another individual can help you perform better in time. Anticipate questions that people might have about your experience, after all, they were not there, so you will be responsible for getting context that they can grasp and connect with.
Compose a story with the following plot points to help make it easier to develop:
- Scene: Where and when did this happen, this is where you can say “We did…”, “We developed…”. etc.
- What problem or task was your duty to fulfill
- Action: Use “I”, speak with intent. “I was task with…”, “I designed…”, “I led…”.
- Results: What resulted from your actions (or in-actions too).
- Relax and listen: Don’t ramble, let a story close and give them time to respond. Communication is a two way street!
| Attention to Detail | Teamwork | Works Independently |
| Leadership | Organization | Flexibility |
| Initiative | Customer Service | Skills in Field |
| Problem Solving | Persiverance / Determination | Productivity |
| Independent Learner | Time Management | Stress Response |
| Creativity | Response to failure | Social Skills |
The End Game
Time to wrap this up! Now its your turn to take initiative. You should have at least two questions for your interviewer that shows you’ve been paying attention and doing research on where you are applying to. Do not ask about salary (at this moment). You can ask about life/work balance, benefits in general, education programs, or internal professional development programs. You will have a chance to talk about salary later in the process.
Thank the interviewer for their time and express your gratitude/pleasure to meet them, then follow-up with a professional thank you email.