This guest post is from senior Jessica Lomelin. Winter term 2008, Jessica participated in portfolio reviews and had very positive evaluations from her reviewers. I asked her (and a few others) to share their tips. You can find Jessica’s blog, A Moment of Wonderful, here.
- Know your stuff. Do some research on your interviewers before meeting with them. Knowing about their professional industries and their work history will help you find unique commonalities.
- Less is more. Although you may be able to fill your portfolio with a variety of pieces, pick and choose a few to focus on. Make a list of the top 3-5 things that you believe makes you stand out and highlight upon those. Your interviewers would rather see you fully explain a few items from start to finish rather than skimming through a plethora of work.
- Be results-oriented. Anyone can write a press release or create a media list. Your interviewers want to see strategic thinking and planning, so explain to them why you chose a particular method and the results that came of it.
- Be confident. If you are genuinely interested in a public relations field, vocalize that. I had a fear that if I focused too much on one sector, I would lessen my chances to ever work in other practices. Regardless of the specific practice, pr practitioners want to see that you are motivated and have the real-world experience to pursue that particular career path.
- Be appreciative. These interviewers have gone out of their way to meet you and provide mentorship services. Send a thank you card and let them know that you appreciate their time and would like to continue to build on this relationship. The more you keep in touch and seek advice, the more they’ll be willing to go out of their way to help you.
Lastly,
- Relax and Have Fun. It’s okay if you slip up or seem a little nervous. This is a learning experience and meant to better prepare you for the future. Just remember that they too were once in our shoes and had to start from somewhere. Remember, Just relax and be yourself, and you’ll be great.
