Interview Prep

• Research– Learn about the organization, such as their mission statement, to understand the essential values driving their work. For faculty positions, view the course catalog, ensemble list, and bios of others in the department to be better informed about the school’s offerings.
• Find Key Words– Review the job announcement to identify key competencies and responsibilities – these should serve as the focus of your answers. Not all required skills will be specifically music-based such as teamwork, oral and written communication, public speaking, problem solving, leadership, management, strategic decision making, etc.
• Success Stories– Think of examples that illustrate your effectiveness. Be prepared to retell these examples concisely by describing the CONTEXT, your ACTION, and the RESULT. Prepare appropriate examples of problems and their resolutions as well.
• Concise & Specific– Questions usually warrant 2-5 minute answers. Aim for VALUABLE CONTENT that demonstrate clearly. For instance, if asked about your greatest strengths don’t simply give a short list, but include scenarios where your strengths influence your actions and result in favorable outcomes.
• Core Talking Points– Always be prepared to answer the question “Why should we hire you?”. This is frequently the final question of an interview and successful candidates will be ready summarize specific talking points
• Practice!– Review our Sample Interview Questions and work out key ideas in short lists of 2-4 bullet points. Then practice answering from these ideas as a prompt.

• Arrival– Your interview begins the instant you arrive. Plan to get there early, even if it means sitting in a reception area as you wait. Warmly greet those who welcome you and be courteous to all. Shake hands, smile, and make eye contact as you introduce yourself.
• No Phones– Leave your phone off or in your car. It should not be seen or used during the interview — give the interview panel/committee your full attention.
• Conversation– Be prepared for small talk before the interview begins. This is a great opportunity to show your personality and interpersonal skills. You might even be able to make someone smile or laugh based on your responses.
• Goodbyes– When the interview has concluded, shake hands with all members of the interview and reiterate your enthusiasm.
• Dress professionally

CAMPUS VISIT INTERVIEWS are commonly organized for candidates in higher education, conducting, and upper level administration. These include multiple parts and could feature a teaching demonstration or masterclass, research or public presentation, leading a rehearsal, giving a recital, meeting with a dean, provost, or human resources, holding drop-in hours for students and faculty, touring the campus and city, and meals with key members of the search committee.

• Location– Find a quiet place with good internet connection – try to use an ethernet cable when available and not rely on wifi.
• Camera– Place the camera at a higher angle, such as putting a laptop up on books, so that you can look directly into the camera.
• Backdrop– Remove clutter or distracting visuals that will be seen behind you on video. Allow the committee to see from your shoulders on up.
• Lighting– Have good lighting on your face; avoid being back-lit by a window or lamp. Balance out strong ceiling lights which can cast shadows on your face (common with glasses).
• Audio– Practice using programs with and without computer speakers. Some people experience feedback if volume levels are too high; this can be overcome by turning the volume down or using a headset/earbuds. Sometimes panels/committees can be hard to hear so having a backup headset/microphone is smart.
• Reading From Notes– You may have some notes or prompts on note cards near your screen, but don’t let your eyes divert from the camera for a noticeable period of time.
• Attire– Even though the committee will not be able to see your clothing well, dressing professionally in a suit or jacket will show your sincere interest in the position.

You can reserve the IML Interview Room for your online interview here: RESERVE THE INTERVIEW ROOM

• Body Cues– Be mindful of your body language and nonverbal communication. This can include your posture and facial expressions, as well as the placement and use of your hands/arms and legs.
• Eye Contact– Make eye contact with all members of the interview panel/committee, not just the person who asked a question.
• Hand Gestures– Using hand gestures can be appropriate to illustrate your point but too many hand gestures may become distracting.
• Engage– Lean forward a bit to engage with the panel and remember to smile.
• Assess– Work with the Careers Advisor and practice answering questions in front of a mirror or video camera to see if you are sending any unintentional nonverbal messages.

• Thank You Note– Send a short thank-you message by email to the supervisor/search committee chair and department head. Send this a day after your interview or upon your return after traveling home. Keep your message simple with only 3-5 sentences and be sure to express your continued interest in the position.
• Be Patient– Waiting can be hard but it isn’t always an indication of a problem. It can take up to several weeks for a search committee to scheduling meetings, contacting HR or a Dean, waiting for budget approval, and preparing a contract. However, don’t put all of your eggs into one basket. Apply to any new jobs that may interest you during this time. Do not contact them to ask about the timeline to fill the position unless a few weeks has passed.
• Negotiating– If you receive an offer, you do not need to accept the position during that initial point of contact. Instead, it is wise to thank them for the contract information and express that you will provide an answer shortly. You will usually be given a timeline for this. Bear in mind that you have not formally accepted an offer until you have signed, returned, and received confirmation of receipt of an agreed-upon contract.
• Keep Trying– If you do not receive an offer, don’t let the job market get you down. Great positions attract a number of applicants and you will always be among many qualified candidates. Be proud to have landed an interview, as the invitation shows that the committee sees great promise in your potential. Take the time for self reflection, networking, and a widened professional prospective; every interview is good practice for when the right fit comes along.