I'm doing my best to be as prepared as possible for this phone interview. I've read articles sent to me by a friend about how best to handle a phone interview, and I will definitely be putting them into practice. Furthermore, this job uses a skill (oral history) that while practiced in a different capacity is one that I was well trained for in graduate school. I did my graduate studies at a university that was one of the pioneers in oral history. Not everyone is good at conducting interviews, but I found I had a special talent for it. Largely because people love to talk to me. I know how to ask the right questions, and I know how to get the information I need, sometimes without even conveying that. In a way, it's very similar to leading a class discussion. You have to ask open ended questions and let the students talk. Let that discussion lead to another question, all the while keeping the person answering the questions focussed on what I need/want to know.
I haven't had many opportunities to conduct oral histories in recent years and some of the technology has changed, so I looked into the modern equipment used in the digital age. I found out what some of the equipment that they use is and emailed a former professor and asked his advice, since the oral history center that he is now in charge of uses the same equipment. I've read over techniques and manuals to refresh my memory about the best strategies and practices of conducting oral histories.
I've also researched the institution where the job is, the people who work in this particular museum (LinkedIn is a wonderful tool), and I have researched the surrounding area. I want to know as much as I possibly can about this job, and he environment there. Of course there is still more reading and research to do today, and rest assured, I will have cheat sheets and notes in front of me when they call. I am determined to make sure that the four people interviewing me know exactly why I am the perfect candidate for this job.
By the way, I know I have been more personal in my posts lately than I ever have in this blog. I hope that this is ok with my readers. I've just been so focussed lately that I've felt the need to share what I am going through, so I would love your feedback on the direction that I have taken the blog in the last few weeks. When I find interesting books or history or news items, I will definitely be posting about them, but I hope it's ok that I've just been more focussed on me lately.
11 comments:
I love personal blogs!
Nick from Brazil
It is not easy trying to find a new job. I appreciate the sincerity and devotion that you are putting into your search. I understand the feeling of having to find a job, especially when there is little income as you search for new employment. I wish you well in the interview.
It's refreshing you are willing to share a bit of yourself in these personal blogs. The job search is a huge part of your life right now, and I think writing about it—the positive and the negative—and getting feedback is also helpful. :)
Add another fan for the personal posts! I enjoy your other posts, too, because I often learn things from them. But the main value of the blogosphere for me is connecting to a larger world and it is through the lives of people that it happens for me. So thanks for all of it and best luck with the interview.
Good luck!
What is great is that you know that you are right for this job, so you know that whatever they ask, your answer is the right answer.
It is your blog and I personally have no complaint whatsoever about the way you run it. A lot of people use their blogs to get personal support or to vent when things are not going well. I prefer someone like you, who is real and honest as opposed to those that sugar coat. Just wishing you well with the interview.
I enjoy the personal aspect of the blog. It doesn't bother me at all. It is your blog to enjoy however you wish. It's nice to know that people can be real and can identify with us all. Good luck with your interview. I know you'll do wonderfully. I'm keeping you in my thoughts and prayers. :)
I wish you luck on your interview...fingers crossed. I'm happy in my job, but have gone on interviews from time to time, just to stay primed for interviews. When people tend to stay in jobs for long periods, then then either get laid off or look for new jobs, one can get very nervous. So I find this a good way to stay "up to date" and help from the nerves. Plus you may even get a higher paying job without ever really knowing you wanted one. Of course if the guy in the above picture is interviewing me, well, I'd be a bit distracted,lol
"I've just been more focussed on me lately"
Joe, with what you are going through, being focused on you is important! You know all of us support you through thick and thin.
GOOD LUCK, PRAYING FOR YOU!
Peace <3
Jay
I enjoy hearing your real true feelings.
Best of luck, sounds like you have done everything you can to prepare!!!
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