Making Your 30 Minutes Count -Presented by: Tera Munroe, Western Illinois University

Tera Munroe provides some useful tips that will help candidates make their 30-minute interview count!

TO DO LIST: Pre-Interview Tips

• Do your homework - research the school & position
• Know your skills and how they relate to the position
• Dress appropriately
• Bring paperwork [i.e. resume, application, portfolio (to show what you've done), etc.]
• Be prepared with one or two questions
• Arrive 10-15 minutes early

TO DO LIST: First 20 seconds

• Carry your portfolio in your left hand... don't fumble when giving a handshake
• Practice a nice firm handshake
• SMILE & make eye contact
• Exercise good posture: appear business like, but not too rigid
• Relax... be yourself... don't pretend to be something you're not

TO DO LIST: Beyond 20 seconds

• Analyze the interviewer
• Be concise in your answers and highlight your skills and knowledge of institution
• Silence for thought/reflection is okay before answering the question
• Be ready for skill related questions:
• Relate 2-3 goals you have set for yourself
• Describe how you have handled a large problem or challenge
• Prepare for the conclusions and exit gracefully

TO DO LIST: Post Interview

• Send thank you notes
• If you have questions, don't be afraid to ask
• Send additional information that is required
• Take time to analyze your interview: Examine Strengths, challenges, etc.

Remember PREPARATION is key.

By Robert Brown

Placement Interview Tips for Candidates, Scott Lewis

Scott Lewis, President of ASCA and Partner of the National Center for Higher Education Risk Management, Ltd. facilitated an engaging and highly interactive discussion focusing on interview tips. He asked the candidates for their "burning" questions, the questions that they most needed answered to better prepare for interviews. The candidate responses included:

1. When religious institutions ask about faith, how should I respond?
2. When asked about my long-term goals, what are the employers looking for?
3. What if I'm a "go with the flow" type of person and don't know my long-term goals? How should I respond?
4. I was surprised by the length of some interviews. If it's an hour-long interview, what's the best way to utilize that time? Do I need to use the full hour?
5. When asked about supervising and advising, what are employers looking for?

Scott addressed each of these questions in detail, emphasizing honesty in responses and a sincere answer. His advice (see below for notes) provided strategic and direct approaches to answering those tough interview questions.

1. It is only appropriate for religiously affiliated universities to ask about religion. If they do, answer honestly. You do not have to go into deep detail, but if there's an issue for you, consider whether the institution is a good fit.
2. When you're a "go with the flow" individual, answer the question about long-term goals truthfully but at the same time with a positive perspective. For example, discuss why you like to consider all opportunities and how you follow what peaks your interest. A candidate can also discuss the pros of being involved in many different aspects of higher education.
3. If your goals are different, speak to how the position you're applying for provides skills and experience that will assist you in reaching your goal. Also note the benefits of diversifying your experiences.
4. Length: 15 minutes too short. 30-45 minutes could be a good sign. Engage employers in good conversation and ask questions. Also from a longer interview, you might get a better feel if it's a good fit or not. That's why employers are there and why you're there. If it's not a fit "take it and move on." There is something out there just perfect for you!
5. Be truthful, what's your true style? Micro-manager? Do you prefer to give space to your employees? Truthful answer about how you supervise will provide them with a better idea of how you will fit (or not fit) what they're looking for

Some last notes from Scott included taking notes directly after an interview. After you leave the interview area, write down with whom you interviewed and what you said. If you're invited back for a 2nd interview, it is wise to use some new examples in your responses!

By Jasmine LeFever

Placement Interview Tips for Candidates -Dave Vale (Cal Polytechnic SLO)

Attending the Placement Interview Tips session presented by Dave Vale (Cal Polytechnic San Luis Obispo) provided some great tips for being successful in an interview. A quick overview of the TPE set up and resources available to candidates gave a better understanding of the entire Exchange and where candidates can go for support. There was an emphasis on being prepared: bring your resumes, do your research on the position and institution, and don't forget those thank you cards!

During the interview, pay attention to names in introductions, be friendly but professional, pause to think before answering a question, be concise, maintain good eye contact, connect experiences to the position, take notes, and ask questions! Dave also addressed the ever-present "Strengths and Weaknesses" question, reminding candidates to be honest with weaknesses and "talk about what you wish to improve upon & what you're doing to enhance that skill." The session also included the Top Ten Red Flags for employers (see below), interview question practice, and post-interview tips (write interview notes and complete thank you cards).

Top Ten Red Flags

• Mentioning other interviews
• Having too many interviews in a row- allow some personal time
• Poor grooming and inappropriate dress
• Lack of eye contact, confidence, or passion
• Being critical or negative (especially when discussing individuals)
• Lack of focus or note answering the question
• Irritating mannerisms, habits, and expressions (ex You know... Umm...)
• Dishonesty or exaggerations
• Lack of preparation (ex. Knowledge about the position/organization)
• Showing up late/disorganized

By Jasmine LeFever