Impromptu Interviews
What we’re referring to here is an interview that doesn’t seem like an interview at all. The impromptu interview is not really an interview as such, but an opportunity that can occur any place at any time. It usually starts in an unexpected location where you inadvertently meet someone who is connected with an industry that you are interested in. It could be a brief conversation that evolves into more of a Q & A when you realize that you share a common interest. Watch for the cues that the situation is transitioning into a business-related conversation and potential opportunity. Recognize these potential networking opportunities, and respond to the situation appropriately.
These impromptu opportunities frequently occur with someone who may not have hiring authority, but is in a position to pass your name on to management or the HR department as a likely candidate.
Such opportunities most often happen in predictable situations such as job fairs, conferences, workshops, or while cold-calling companies of interest. They can also occur in less-likely circumstances, such as a family function, baseball game, or while sitting in a Starbucks. The key to success is, as always, be prepared.
SWOT Analysis
Strengths - There is an opportunity for sharing information informally.
- If you’re skilled at casual conversation it is easy to win over your contact.
- Someone from the company has already met you and formed a favourable impression.
| Weaknesses - If you aren’t skilled at ice-breaker chit-chat, you may feel uncomfortable.
- You might not be sure what to talk about, or how to bring it up.
- The nature of this situation may find you without a resume or business cards handy.
- If you neglect to get the appropriate details, it will be difficult to follow up.
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Opportunities - You have the opportunity to share your strengths and experiences with a valuable contact.
- This opportunity can be well directed by you with some good preparation..
- Follow-up will be welcome, and can be easily executed.
- You will have expanded your network of contacts.
- Be prepared by keeping a business card on hand at all times.
| Threats - Time constraints on your contact may mean that the encounter is brief.
- You only get one chance to make a first impression. Don't forget that this is an interview.
- Don’t feel pressure to fully perform or hog your contact's attention.
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Helpful Hints
Thinking on the fly ~ For those people who are able to think quickly and speak to strangers easily, impromptu opportunities can be gracefully approached and executed.
Inside edge ~ These interviews are easiest when you have some knowledge or experience in the industry, and speak the jargon well enough to navigate a brief conversation.
The Pursuit (Networking) ~ Unlike some interview scenarios, it will not seem out of place or aggressive if you follow up with this contact. You want to continue to nurture this new contact as part of your growing network.
 | hot tip: network like a pro! |
| Improve your networking skills by attending one of the many networking workshops that are offered on campus or in your local community. Vist the community calendar to view upcoming workshops. |  |
Tongue tied ~ If you have difficulty making conversation at parties where you don’t know people, this approach may be a challenge. However, you can improve your conversational skills by developing conservation openers that you practice on friends and family. Practicing your conversation skills will help you to build confidence.
Elevator pitch ~ Can you sum up your skills and experience professionally in 60 seconds? The key to successful impromptu encounters is to be able to summarize your personal and professional profile accurately and succinctly. Practice your elevator pitch with friends and family.
Be prepared ~ Always carry a business /networking card, cell phone or PDA with you for those unexpected moments where you meet a contact that could impact your career.A copy of your resume, skills summary is essential for the more predictable situations such as networking events, conferences or workshops.
Guessing game
~ These impromptu encounters or brief interviews may be formal or informal, structured or unstructured. You may or may not be able to control the direction of the conversation.
Nine lives ~ As much as you want to maximize every opportunity, keep these chance meetings in perspective. If your first few impromptu encounters do not go as expected, don’t be overly concerned. Chances are, these company representatives will not remember you, and you can maintain your anonymity. Reflect after each experience (what did you do well? what could you improve on?) to improve on your future performances.
Too fast for comfort ~ The impromptu interview can take place in a number of different settings such as career fairs, conferences, workshops, even classes. You may not be able to hold an extended conversation if there are a lot of other people waiting to speak to the same person, or if the schedule of events keeps one or both of you pressed for time.
The competition ~ Do not monopolize your contact's time. Instead, exchange information and ask for a future meeting. They will appreciate your consideration, and you will have gained a conversational opener when you do follow up.
Watchful eyes ~ Often you will be attending an event related to your work, and may have a colleague or supervisor in tow. This may change the directness of your approach with a contact but should not limit your ability to follow up with new contacts at a more appropriate time.
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