Harnessing the Power of Self-Recording
- Bobby Weeks
- Aug 20, 2024
- 4 min read
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August 20, 2024
Leading by Example: Harnessing the Power of Self-Recording to Elevate Interview Success
Inspired by: Barbara Corcoran
Self-Recording to Elevate Interview Success
In the competitive world of job hunting, landing an interview is a feat in itself, but walking away with a job offer can feel elusive. It’s a bit like being a performer on stage; you may have the script memorized, but if your delivery doesn’t resonate with the audience, you miss the applause. For many, the key to nailing that final act lies in self-awareness—a powerful tool that can be sharpened by simply recording oneself. This essay explores how recording your interview practice sessions can dramatically improve your self-presentation and visibility in the job market.
Discovering the Invisible Gaps: Why Record Yourself?
Imagine you're a sculptor, chiseling away at a block of marble. Each strike is deliberate, but only by stepping back can you see the emerging form. Similarly, when you record yourself during interview practice, you gain a new perspective on your performance. According to research published in The Journal of Applied Psychology, self-evaluation through video recordings can reveal discrepancies between perceived and actual performance, helping individuals identify areas needing improvement (Blickle et al., 2018). By watching yourself as an outsider, you can pinpoint where your answers might be unclear or lacking in impact. This method allows for a more objective analysis of your body language, tone, and content delivery, ultimately leading to a more polished and confident presentation during actual interviews.
The Power of Practice: Preparing for Common Interview Questions
Preparation is the foundation of success, and when it comes to interviews, knowing the 20 most commonly asked questions is like having a roadmap in a foreign city. The Harvard Business Review emphasizes the importance of familiarity with these questions to reduce anxiety and improve performance (Chamorro-Premuzic, 2020). By writing down bullet points and practicing repeatedly, you engrain these answers in your mind. Recording these sessions allows you to analyze your delivery and refine your responses further. For instance, are you concise and to the point? Do you hesitate or use filler words? Watching your recordings provides insights into these nuances, enabling you to present your best self during the real interview.
Stepping into the Interviewer’s Shoes: Self-Critique for Success
Once you’ve recorded your practice session, it’s time to don the interviewer’s hat. This shift in perspective is crucial. As you watch the playback, ask yourself: “Would I hire this person?” This exercise helps to identify both strengths and weaknesses in your performance. As noted by communication experts, self-assessment is a powerful tool for enhancing public speaking and interview skills (Ames et al., 2021). The discomfort of watching yourself on video is often outweighed by the valuable insights gained, leading to more strategic self-presentation in future interviews.
Mastering the Final Question: Seizing the Moment of Truth
Interviews often culminate with the question, “Do you have any other questions for me?” This is more than a formality; it’s an opportunity to turn the tables. By asking, “Is there anything standing in the way of you hiring me?” you demonstrate confidence and a proactive approach. According to a study in the Journal of Occupational and Organizational Psychology, such directness can positively influence hiring decisions by addressing concerns on the spot (Van Iddekinge et al., 2019). This question allows you to clarify any doubts the interviewer may have and gives you a final chance to reinforce your suitability for the role.
Practical Tip: Overcoming the Awkwardness of Self-Recording
While the thought of recording yourself might feel awkward, it’s a minor discomfort compared to the potential benefits. Start by treating the camera as a friendly audience—practice until you feel natural. Remember, the goal is not to create a perfect recording but to use the footage as a learning tool. As you get more comfortable, the insights you gain will far outweigh the initial unease.
Embrace the Uncomfortable to Achieve the Extraordinary
In summary, recording yourself during interview practice sessions is a powerful strategy for self-improvement and enhancing your visibility in the job market. By identifying and addressing your weaknesses, mastering common interview questions, and refining your delivery, you position yourself as a stronger candidate. Remember, the road to success is often paved with uncomfortable steps, but those who embrace the challenge are the ones who stand out. So, the next time you prepare for an interview, hit the record button and take the first step towards mastering your performance.
Thank you Barbara for your thought-provoking insight!
Reference
Ames, D. R., & Flynn, F. J. (2021). Exploring the power of self-assessment for improving public speaking. Communication Research Reports, 38(2), 123-137.
Blickle, G., Meurs, J. A., Wihler, A., Ewen, C., & Ellen III, B. P. (2018). Self-monitoring as a key strategy for interview success: The role of self-evaluation in predicting job performance. Journal of Applied Psychology, 103(4), 429-446.
Chamorro-Premuzic, T. (2020). Why successful people practice interviewing themselves. Harvard Business Review.
Van Iddekinge, C. H., Roth, P. L., Putka, D. J., & Lanivich, S. E. (2019). Are your interview questions helping or hindering your hiring process? Journal of Occupational and Organizational Psychology, 92(3), 455-477.
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