I’m pretty green when it comes to interviewing. What are some ways to disarm awkwardness / get the conversational banter going prior to going through the work?

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Interview your interviewer. Follow up every answer with a question for them - about their culture, priorities, insight into how they made their latest big campaign(s). Make it a conversation and you’ll feel more relaxed.

likehelpful

I know some people deliberately add fun facts or interests to the “about me” page of portfolios to give the interviewer something to chat with you about while you all get settled. On mine I mention my love for Jeopardy and I’ve been asked about it at the beginning of a few interviews. It feels great because it gets me in an authentic mindset right away and they get to see me talk about something I’m passionate about rather than awkward small talk.

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Totally agree! He had a similar playful but serious nature as Alex and I know Alex really respected him so it feels like an Alex-approved choice. I hope they pick him too.

Generally, I recommend just talking about the work as honestly and genuinely as you can. You don’t need to create banter, so dont put that pressure on yourself.

If you want to add a little more energy to the conversation, just share something that happened with the work - was the shoot chaotic? Did you sell work to difficult clients? Did you work with a great director?

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1) You’re evaluating each other
2) Friendliness covers up anxiety pretty well. Pretend you know your interviewer, like you were surprised to find out your friend at the company is the one in the interviewer’s seat

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When they ask “how are you” at the beginning don’t just say “fine.” Tell them about something weird or interesting that happened to you today. Great ice breaker

smarthelpful

it’s awkward, just accept it and you won’t be judged for it.

The night before think of the questions you think you might be asked and formulate a respose so you’re not caught brain farting on the day of. Also, interviews are you two gauging each other’s personalities. Make them laugh, talk about things you both might like. Lastly, a shot bourbon 10 mins before helps me shake off some jitters.

I reckon my biggest issue is perceiving the line between professional and informal. I feel like advertising is an industry where some people really champion honesty and authenticity while others prefer a more refined individual that could be perceived as professional. Thoughts?

Mind if I DM you about this? This makes a lot of sense to me.

Practice, practice practice!!! Tell personal stories that highlight professional strengths or values like being a team-player, creative problem solvers, money saver etc. Also realize that they want/need you that why you got the interview

Get really drunk. It won't be awkward at all. For you.

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