10 ways to shine in a Creative interview
So, after decades of interviewing Creatives, I thought I should share some knowledge and advice, on how you can shine in a Creative Interview. I could go on-and-on, so its been a task to select my Top 10 ways to shine! Ultimately, it all comes down to who you are and what you can do.
Show your talents, show your personality and be the person they need in their team or organisation. Interviewing Creative people is such a joy, and something I love to do - there is an air of excitement, energy, discovery and passion. I hope some tips from the list below will help you shine …
1 - Show your personality. A team is built on skill, personality, knowledge and talent. Together it creates a dynamic. Show who you are, what you can do, and what you will bring.
2 - What else do you do, and is that a desirable workplace skill? For example, do you coach or ‘Captain’ a Sports Team? - That’s leadership! Have you been in a responsible role before? - That’s trust! Do you carry out any courses or online learning? - That’s ambition and self motivation! Do you care for anyone? Or carry out any voluntary work? - That’s kindness! All these attributes help build a picture of who you are, and what you will bring, aside of your talent, skill and knowledge.
3 - Quality over quantity. Gone are the days of an A1 portfolio and a ‘bag for life’ full of sketch books. Select your best of the best. Show detail, show technique, show refinement and show your process. Is there a design project that tells a story? Is there a project or piece of work that you absolutely adore? You will come alive and naturally show passion when you discuss this, even if it isn’t your absolute best. Select work that you have something valid to say about. This is another opportunity to show the real ‘you’.
4 - If you do lots of things well, what is the one thing that you do brilliantly? Research? Colour? Illustration? Typography? Software knowledge? Think about it, be proud, and make sure ‘that thing you do amazingly well’ comes across.
5 - Be ready! Annoyingly, you will probably be asked ‘Where do you see yourself in 5 years time?’ and ‘What’s your biggest weakness?’ .. some things never change. So be ready, and have your answers ready. Try not to say what you think they want to hear. But equally, don’t say something that will go against you. Be honest, but be smart. For example, you could discuss how in 5 years you will be a far more valuable employee. Are you ambitious? Show it. Are you dedicated and committed to progression? Talk about it.
6 - Your portfolio shows far more than your design work. It displays your presentation style, your attention to detail, your use of tech, your eye for colour and composition. Consider what skills are being displayed at every stage, on every page / slide.
7 - Research and development. Show your process, the avenues of research, your inspiration and your refinement. Show how you have been inspired, but remained original. Are you working to a trend? Have you identified a trend? Talk about it.
8 - Be relevant for the industry. Either adjust or mock up your work to suit the industry you are applying for. If the majority of your work shows talent, skill and knowledge, but in another industry, consider adding in a ‘new / bespoke’ project, with your potential new employer in mind.
9 - Be memorable. What will they remember about you when you leave? What would would you like them to remember? If you are one of many, how will you stand out?
10 - They WILL say ‘do you have any questions?’ - so have some ready! Select the most appropriate based on how the interview is going. Think about how you can show maturity, professionalism, understanding and personality. A good approach is to make a real personal connection with them, for example, ask ‘what do they love about their role, or the company?’
Be brilliant, be you, and shine!
Good Luck!
