A former colleague once told me that she “interviews recreationally” – that is, she actually enjoys going on job interviews even if she isn’t actually looking to make a jump. She interviews for sport – to see what else is out there, remain savvy about the PR marketplace, and stay competitive within the field.
Assuming you’re in the majority who don’t rank interviewing among your top hobbies, you probably get apprehensive the night before an interview. The what-ifs can be killer, especially if you’re new to the interviewing scene. Below are key tips for PR interviews that are borrowed from PR media training as well as life experience, to help you prepare for, and ace, your interview.
Tips for PR Interview:
Nail the “tell me about yourself” question. Set yourself up for a successful meeting by “wowing” your interviewer when asked an open-ended question about yourself. Think of three major points you’d like to convey about yourself and your background and memorize them. Then supplement each with anecdotes or supporting points that you can use throughout the session. If you’re a publicist like me, you might list media relations as one of your greatest strengths, but take it a step further by sharing an example of heroic work.
Anticipate difficult questions. You’ve agency-hopped three times in the last year? There’s a mysterious time gap on your resume? Know how you’ll tackle these common PR interview questions, because they will be asked. For tough queries, honesty and brevity are always best – if the company wasn’t a good fit, say so. Follow your response with a genuine reason why you’re interested in this company.
Practice out loud. What sounds good in your head might not sound as compelling out loud, and the last place you want to learn that is during your interview. Sure, you’ll want to talk about brilliant accomplishments or ideas, but delivery is the differentiator between confidence and arrogance. Practice reading in front of a mirror, or better yet, in front of an audience. If all else fails, call your mom, whose unconditional love for you will force her to oblige.
Like the company. On Facebook, that is. And follow them on Twitter. And Pinterest. Many companies have a newsletter and/or blog – sign up for it. Social media is a great way to obtain information that can’t always be found on the company website, including icebreakers like hometowns or sports team favorites.
Prepare intelligent questions: Always have questions. I once met with someone who rocked the interview until I asked “Do you have any questions?” and the candidate said, “No.” Really, nothing? So you’re telling me you know EVERYTHING about this agency and this position? This was a red flag that may have signaled a lack of interest. To play it safe, prepare roughly ten thoughtful interview questions (in case some are answered during the interview). Don’t ask about salary or benefits until later in the game.
And finally, remember that it’s just an interview: Think back to a time you were mortified beyond belief. Chances are this interview pales in comparison. Even if this is your dream job, the worst thing that can happen is you bomb the interview, learn from it, and move on. And, you’ll have a funny happy-hour story.