A job interview is not a dress rehearsal. Here are ten reasons that you MUST practice in front of someone else first.
- To get out of your head.
- To find out if someone else gets your point.
- To find out if you have a point. Or four points.
- To see how nervousness affects you: does your breathing get shallow? Do you say um, sort of, or like? Do you minimize the big things (as so many of us do)? Do you mumble?
- To learn what gets someone interested or curious, and wanting to know more. That information will help you know what to emphasize.
- To find out if you meandered and got lost in the weeds. That information will help you stay on point and stay focused.
- To learn about the strengths and lessons and impact that someone else heard, and to hear those things described in another person’s language. Two points here: First, you’ll create a strong leading statement when you know your big impact. Second, you can use new, more engaging language when you have someone else’s input. Our own language can get stale and habitual.
- To see if you are uncomfortable with taking credit and bragging about your accomplishments. (get over that!)
- To find out if you use “I statements” or attribute successes to the “we”, to a team or company. Are you claiming your achievements? Get using I statements.
- To find out if you have vocal variety and if you’re monotone. Stories are best delivered with varied pacing, pauses, energy and emphasis for the important points.
Remember: a job search is not a dress rehearsal. If you’re doing it right, you will have an audience. So, find a friendly one to practice with first.
Ah, yes, you can always come to the Thursday night Interview Club in Oakland if you want a friendly audience, coaching support and instruction. lauraparadisecoaching.com