I got an interview! Now I need some help please :D

**My Three Sons** · December 14th, 2011, 10:17 AM

LOL.

Good luck with it!

**Traveller** · December 14th, 2011, 10:28 AM

Serious question now

The presentation is to cover a few topics, including why people struggle with the subject, and what study techniques I used to succeed. I want to use some props to make it a bit more interesting, so was thinking of using the 4 large textbooks as a visual tool to demonstrate how overwhelming the subject can be. Then using an empty A4 folder and a highlighter pen to show how simple tools can make it all much easier. Sound good or too corny?

**peanutter** · December 14th, 2011, 10:33 AM

Always start with a cartwheel. It adds drama and a certain air of severity to the mood, and will enhance their fear of you. Only powerful, intimidating people who demand respect, authority and quarterly salary raises can do cartwheels.

If you cannot do cartwheels, an electric blue mohawk can also work.

As for your actual questions:-

1. If it specifically says no need for powerpoint, I would take it as being that they're expecting you to do it without. They might have the projector and laptop there just in case, but it sounds like they'd rather you not use it. Now, if you can use Prezi (sp??) I would ... it rocks! But five minutes is short ... it will be hard not to overdo it.

2. I wouldn't go in denim. If in doubt, I'd go for black/grey/brown slacks, a neat top, and take a matching jacket, but (if you think it's likely to be more casual than not) I'd carry the jacket, and then just pop it on if they're wearing one. But if that's all way too formal, wear whatever is neat but comfortable for you. If you have tattoos, I'd treat them in the same way as the rest of the clothing question: what will your colleagues be wearing - is that respectful and appropriate in the working environment? If so, let it rip (as in, don't stress about tattoos showing ... I don't mean to start farting in the interview ... at least, not before you've discussed your salary ...). I've seen lawyers and nurses etc with tattoos - I don't think they're the tabboo they used to be. But if I wasn't sure, I'd cover them up - so that I wasn't thinking about them and second guessing my choice during the interview!!

As for an opening, you could go in with a bottle of Stolichnaya, some paper cups and some pot, screaming "Merry Christmas, B1tches!!" and then ask them if they know which Musical it's from (answer: Rent).

Both your cultural knowledge, your ability to score weed and your good taste in beverages will show instantly that you're a shoe-in for the position.

Most of all, GOOD LUCK!!

So the crits notes? No powerpoint, dress neatly, do a cartwheel, don't fart, and get the job

**peanutter** · December 14th, 2011, 10:37 AM

Serious question now

The presentation is to cover a few topics, including why people struggle with the subject, and what study techniques I used to succeed. I want to use some props to make it a bit more interesting, so was thinking of using the 4 large textbooks as a visual tool to demonstrate how overwhelming the subject can be. Then using an empty A4 folder and a highlighter pen to show how simple tools can make it all much easier. Sound good or too corny?

maybe compare exam techniques in this way ...

One pile - the four big books, the printed materials, your notebooks, and a thin folder of your summaries ...

Other pile - just your folder and highlighter.

Personally, I plan presentations kind of like an essay:-

1. introduce topic, and tell them what I'm going to tell them, with the roadmap.

2. first point, with an example (analogy or event-based-vingette is best, becaues it's easy to retell without having to consult your notes - you already know it!!)

3. second point, with an example

4. third point, with an example (if I'm not running out of time)

5. sum up, telling them what I've told them and how we got there.

Any props I use, I have set up at the start and just covered over - that way, they don't take up my time during the talk, and I don't have to turn away from the audience, or waste eye-contact time. And I link them into the three stories - aiding the recall of the story, and painting the picture more clearly. And then I indicate to them during the summing up, if relevant.

**Traveller** · December 14th, 2011, 03:20 PM

That really helps, thanks Peanutter!

OK another question. During the section on "effective study habits" would it be too arse kissy to talk about study snacks, such as lollies, then hand some out?

**peanutter** · December 14th, 2011, 06:30 PM

Good question.

A lady I know got a resume once with a teabag and an individually wrapped biscuit, with a note saying to sit back and enjoy reading their application ... the resume (but not the teabag or biscuit!!) ended up in the bin without being read. She took it as a really crap attempt at bribery - when I'm pretty confident that it was just the applicant's sense of humour.

But I'm guessing it's another situation where you have to know your audience.

If in doubt, leave it out.

***Danni*** · December 14th, 2011, 06:45 PM

Just wanted to say congrats on the interview! I wonder if this was the same position that I answered your question about whether to attach or write your cover letter?

Either way, just wanted to wish you good luck!!!!!

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**Traveller** · December 14th, 2011, 07:33 PM

Yes Danni it's the same one

I was so pleased to get an interview now I am just nervous lol

**nothing2lose** · December 14th, 2011, 08:22 PM

Good luck tomorrow Trav x Oops, I mean DJ M'Shizzle

**peanutter** · December 14th, 2011, 10:08 PM

and don't forget - it's all about the cartwheels. the kids dig the cartwheels.

***Danni*** · December 15th, 2011, 09:13 AM

Ooh how exciting! Thinking of you today... All the best wishes for the interview and look forward to hearing how it goes!!

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