the interview and follow-up
Your interview is both a visual and a non-visual presentation. There are plenty of talented designers out there and they (mostly) all know their programs, so its very important to use the interview to stand out from the crowd.
First, prepare. Practice presenting your work. And then practice some more, in front of family and friends. Avoid phrases like “just” and “small” as in “this is JUST a school project” or “this is something SMALL I did for a friend”. These phrases diminish your work. Be proud of your work, otherwise, take out. Every piece should have a little 15 second story that explains what it is, the parameters and how you solved the problem. For example, “This is an identity for a non-profit organization that helps children read after school. They had a small budget, so we limited the printing to two colors and used an existing template for the website. The logo represents...”. This allows you to show your thinking behind the project, and is a non-visual clue to what type of employee you will be. Do you have a personality? Can you think on your own? Are you more than pretty pictures in a pretty case?
Second, dress appropriately. This is an interview, not a day in the graphics lab or late night at your desk. If you want to be taken professionally, dress professionally. This doesn’t mean a suit and tie or dress and heels, we’re designers after all, not accountants. But it does mean clean and sharp. Show your style, but don’t overdo it. Impress, but don’t be flashy.
Third, show up on time. Ask in advance for directions or if there are any parking restrictions. Online maps and GPS are great, but don’t assume it will be easy. Instead, assume you’ll get lost and confused. Double check directions and plan ahead.
Finally, be clear and professional. Nothing kills an interview faster than an impersonal, soft spoken, lazy presenter, who assumes their book will speak for itself, or the interviewer will ask all the questions. Be friendly, offer information, be honest, but mostly, be yourself. Be prepared to answer all those cliché answers, like, “what’s your biggest asset, your weakest trait, how do you respond under pressure, what do you hope to be doing in five years, what do you bring to this position, what do you like to do outside of work...”. How you answer these questions tells as much about you as a person and employee as your portfolio does about your skill set, so practice your responses.
Follow-up
Why is this so uncommon? Your prospective employer just took 30 minutes or so out of a - probably since they’re hiring - busy day. The least you can do is thank them for their time. A quick HANDWRITTEN NOTE is the best second impression you can make. It says, “I care”. Sure it’s old school, but most people really like getting mail and a thank you note is the best. It reminds them why YOU are the best candidate for this position. An e-mail is an acceptable second choice, but only if you’ve already established that as an appropriate means of communication.
KEY POINTS
1. Practice
2. Dress appropriately
3. Be punctual
4. Be prepared
5. Follow-up