You did it! You have an interview for a position you have been eyeing. It’s time to get ready for the interview.
Below are some tips for preparing for the interview as well as “game day” - the interview itself. And, we’ve included some tips on what to do after the interview is over, win or lose.
You got this!
After you read these tips - if you have tips of your own, jump on social media and @RisingCoaches to let us know.
BEFORE YOU INTERVIEW
YOUR NETWORK GOOGLE DOC
- Pull out that Google Doc you created of your network and reach out and ask to pick their brain.
- What are questions they ask?
- What are questions you should ask?
- Don’t ask anyone to call -- it’s too early and everyone else who can’t get the job is probably doing this.
PRACTICE!
- WELL BEFORE applying -- ask sport admin what they might ask in an interview (remember that lunch ...)
- Prior to even applying for jobs or interviews, collect a list of questions you might be asked.
- Practice answers with another coach, sport admin or your mom - doesn’t matter.
- Receipt answers out loud - even if you are telling answers to your mom or dog.
DURING THE INTERVIEW
THINGS TO REMEMBER …
- MEN: Dress professional: Wear a nice shirt/pants. Hard soled shoes. Dress like you want the job. Be professional. Get a haircut! If you have facial hair - trim it. Clean shaven is best. If it’s for a head coaching job - wear a TIE!
- WOMEN: Dress professional. You aren’t going to work out or to a club. Go light on the jewelry and make up. Cut down on crazy hair, super bright colors, trendy clothing
- Look SHARP!
- Stand up straight and sit up straight
- Mention something one of your coaching mentors has told you.
- Mention something your parents have told you about success.
- Mention book you read (be honest - they might have read it).
- Have prepared questions. This is KEY!
IF IN PERSON
- Shake their hand firmly (male or female)
- Look at them when speaking -- eye contact is important
- You are on the clock interviewing from the second you step out of your residence to the second you step back in. Always remember - it’s a small world and you never know who is watching you or listening to you.
- For more on top tips for mastering your public speaking skills, click here (part 1) and here (part 2).
IF ON ZOOM:
- Brush up on your Zoom etiquette by clicking here.
- QUIET ROOM
- Check your mic, background, close any windows open, etc.
- Log in the call 3 minutes early -- not too early and not LATE!
- Wear headphones and mute when not speaking
- Smile
AFTER THE INTERVIEW (within 3 hours)
- Send the hiring person a handwritten thank you note.
- Email the different people you met. Short emails but mention one thing.
- SPELLCHECK -- ask someone you trust to proofread
- For more on mastering the art of writing notes: click here.
IF YOU DIDN’T GET THE JOB
SEND A THANK YOU NOTE
- Send them a handwritten note thanking them for the chance to interview
- YOU NEVER KNOW WHEN ANOTHER JOB WILL OPEN
In the next blog, we’ll give you some inside tips on things athletic directors, administrators and head coaches LOVE about candidates. Stay tuned to Rising Coaches for more!
WE CAN HELP
If you are looking for assistance with your interview skills or perfecting your own brand, Bee Young Communications and Marketing can help you. Click here to learn more about Bee Young Comms.
To learn more about what Bee Young Comms can do to help you or your team, contact us today.
Follow @BeeYoungComms on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn.
Listen to Michelle Young on The Rising Coaches Right Fit Podcast
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