Shelton On Open Interview Experiences

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Post on Jan 23, 2025

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Shelton on Open Interview Experiences: My Wild Ride and Your Survival Guide

Hey everyone, Shelton here. Let's talk open interviews – those terrifying, exhilarating, sometimes utterly bizarre experiences where you're thrown into a room with a bunch of strangers and a panel of interviewers, and suddenly, you're on. Think speed dating, but for your career. Yeah, it's intense.

I've been through enough open interviews to write a book (maybe I will someday!), and let me tell you, it's a rollercoaster. There are moments of pure panic, where you're convinced you've completely bombed it. Then there are those surprisingly awesome moments where you nail an answer and feel like a total rockstar. It's a wild ride.

<h3>My Biggest Open Interview Fail (and what I learned)</h3>

My first open interview? Total disaster. I was fresh out of college, full of myself and brimming with way too much caffeine. I thought I was prepared. I wasn't. I stumbled over my answers, forgot key details about my past experiences, and, the absolute worst part? I spent half the time rambling about my cat instead of my skills. Yes, my cat. I'm still cringing.

Lesson learned: Preparation is everything. Don't just review your resume; deeply understand your accomplishments and how they relate to the jobs you're applying for. Practice your answers out loud. Seriously. Practice with a friend, in the mirror, even in the shower if you have to. And, for goodness sake, leave the cat stories at home.

<h3>Open Interview Strategies That Actually Work (because I tested 'em)</h3>

Over the years, I've tweaked my approach. Here's what's helped me actually succeed in open interviews:

• Research, research, research: Before even stepping foot in the room, I now do my homework. I check out the company website, look up the interviewers on LinkedIn, and even try to find articles about the company's culture. Knowing something about the company shows that you care.

• Structure your answers: The STAR method is your best friend. Situation, Task, Action, Result. It helps you give clear, concise answers that highlight your accomplishments. Practice using it for common interview questions.

• Body Language Matters: Make eye contact, smile (genuinely!), and sit up straight. It sounds simple, but good body language can make a huge difference in how you're perceived.

• Ask thoughtful questions: Don't just sit there passively. Ask insightful questions about the company, the team, or the role. It shows engagement and interest. And, you get to learn more. It's a win-win!

• Network like crazy: Talk to other candidates (respectfully, of course!). Open interviews are great networking opportunities. You never know who you'll meet. You might even make a new friend or future colleague.

• Follow-up: After the interview, send a thank-you email to each interviewer. Personalize each one! This small gesture shows professionalism and can really make you stand out. I've had some interviewers say this was a key factor in them selecting me. Don't underestimate it.

<h3>The Emotional Rollercoaster: How to Keep Your Cool</h3>

Let's be real, open interviews are stressful. You might feel overwhelmed, panicked, or even a little nauseous. That's totally normal! Here are a few ways I cope with the anxiety:

• Deep breaths: It sounds cliché, but it works. Take a few deep breaths before and during the interview to center yourself.

• Positive self-talk: Remind yourself of your skills and accomplishments. You got this! Really believe it.

• Remember your worth: You deserve this opportunity. Don't let nerves undermine your confidence.

Open interviews are tough, but they can be incredibly rewarding. By learning from my mistakes and using the strategies I've outlined, you can increase your chances of success. So go out there, conquer those open interviews, and land your dream job! Let me know how it goes in the comments – I'd love to hear your experiences!