If I tell you there are strategies to give you a heads up for your interview, I think I already have your attention.
This blog post is based on a recent conversation I had with Professor Sameer Sahasrabudhe
When you sit for your interview, my goal is to make you say…. “Tell me, what’s the best you can do for me?”
Gone are the days when job advertisements claimed you could fit every role. It’s impossible for one person to meet all criteria perfectly. Job ads are generic, looking for someone with a specific background, degrees, and experience. But you are much more than that. An advertisement will never fully describe you.
The Only Way to Stand Out
To crack the interview process, look for the specific role you want in well-known places and apply directly for that role. For example, if you’re applying for a teaching role, prepare two documents:
- Teaching Courses Document
- List the courses you are currently teaching.
- Mention additional courses you can offer.
- Study the institution’s website thoroughly to align your offerings with their needs.
2. Research Document
- Detail the research you are currently conducting.
- Propose potential research projects you can bring to the institution.
- Use this for research institutes, highlighting your dream research projects.
Strategy to Ace Your Interview
Make multiple copies of these documents and distribute them to everyone on the interview panel. Most questions will stem from these printouts. Additionally, research deeply and engage with the department you’re applying to. Discuss the gaps you can fill.
For instance, MOOCs are becoming essential, and even the Indian government is promoting them. Highlight how you can be a pioneer in setting up the right studio, courses, or expertise in building MOOCs for the institution.
My Experience
In my case, I can leverage my experience as a Teaching Assistant and learner and my connections within the LCM community. As a Discussion Forum Moderator, I can also utilize my network to bring in the best resource persons and speakers to develop MOOCs for your institute. (Info shared here are completely 100% true)
These qualifications would give me a significant advantage when being considered for “The” role…
TL;DR- Use all available strategies to reach your dream position. Networking is key.
Remember- You only have to be Lucky BIG Once. So make that count 💲
2024 CV Writing perspective
So how do you type express you are delta X better than the rest via your CV?
I think it is a crime to follow the generic CV template and then get into some place and crib about it
-Prof Sameer Sahasrabudhe
Instead, focus on highlighting how you are uniquely better than the rest. Avoid jargon and clearly demonstrate your unique value. This will only come through when you move away from standard templates. (I personally am so done with the Image, Objective and Hobbies part)
PS: I am also a freelancer for content and resume writing so speak on what I see, experience.