I was invited to a friends 40th birthday bbq recently, you know the type of thing, a garden party affair with 50 or so guests drinking fruit punch and enjoying the warmer weather we've been having recently. Before turning up I decided to make a massive homemade dessert, a New York cheesecake, I wasn't specifically asked to take one along but went out on a whim as I thought it would be a nice touch and a good ice breaker (plus secretly I wanted to show off some of my culinary skills).
While I was at the party it made me think, a job interview presentation is like a great dessert at a BBQ. You don't have to make one but if you do everyone will be so glad you did.
JOB INTERVIEW PRESENTATIONS: HOW DEMONSTRATING CONFIDENCE AND INITIATIVE SETS YOU APART
As humans we like to know exactly what to do, we thrive when given clear instructions and have defined expectations laid out in front of us. Taking an impromptu dessert to a BBQ or turning up at a prospective employer with a 10 minute job interview presentation doesn't fit this mould, we're putting ourselves out there, outside the boundaries of what is expected of us. Doing something we weren't specifically asked to do goes against our nature, it's nerve-wracking and filled with uncertainty.
But what is there to be afraid of? In both the friendly environment of a social gathering or the more formal setting of a job interview, the ability to demonstrate a little initiative, personal character and desire to go above and beyond is a highly valued character trait, who doesn't want to see this? It's a welcome trait.
YOUR INTERVIEW PRESENTATION WON’T BE THE ONLY DESSERT AT THE PARTY
Now, here's the delightful twist: another culinary enthusiast had also brought a dessert to the BBQ. On the garden side table, an irresistible assortment of chocolate brownies awaited, accompanied by a couple of tubs of extra thick whipping cream. It was a sight to behold!
Placing my homemade cheesecake alongside the tempting brownies created a dedicated dessert table that exuded an air of excitement. The variety of desserts provided a sense of comparison, enhancing the overall experience for everyone. Guests found themselves pondering, "Should I indulge in the Cheesecake or go for the Brownies?"
Applying this scenario to a job interview, it becomes clear that you won't be the only candidate who invests time and effort in creating an interview presentation. Even if employers don't explicitly request it, many hiring managers expect candidates at middle to senior levels to showcase their abilities through presentations. By having a well-prepared presentation, you secure a coveted seat at the top table—a platform to demonstrate your remarkable skills and how they align with the employer's needs.
Embracing the Power of Comparison:
Within the recruitment process, comparison plays a pivotal role in identifying the right candidate. I've encountered numerous hiring managers, who, despite finding a candidate impressive, yearned to see a few more to make informed comparisons. Even if you appear to be the perfect fit that alone may not be enough. Hence, having additional desserts, or in this case, presentations, is indeed a valuable asset.
YOUR DESSERT / INTERVIEW PRESENTATION NEEDS TO HIT THE MARK
Now, let's delve into a crucial aspect—ensuring that your dessert or interview presentation hits the mark flawlessly. If you're dedicating time to create a dessert or presentation, it's essential to do it justice. The key is to either craft something truly extraordinary or forgo it altogether. After all, you wouldn't want to experience the disappointment of being an untouched dessert on the garden sidetable once the event concludes.
Just as a masterful dessert captivates taste buds and leaves guests longing for more, your presentation should aim to impress and leave a lasting impression. Strive for excellence, ensuring that every aspect of your dessert or presentation is thoughtfully considered and meticulously executed. Use your creativity to design an experience that surpasses expectations and delights the senses. Remember, mediocrity won't do justice to your efforts.
Aim for the Perfect Blend of Flavors:
Like a dessert that balances flavors and textures to create a harmonious symphony of taste, your interview presentation should strike the perfect balance. Tailor your content, visuals, and delivery to align seamlessly with the needs and expectations of the potential employer. Research the company extensively, understanding their challenges, goals, and values. Then, infuse your presentation with relevant insights and innovative ideas that resonate with the decision-makers. By achieving this balance, you ensure that your presentation stands out and makes a significant impact.
JOB INTERVIEW PRESENTATIONS: FOOD FOR THOUGHT AND SWEET CONCLUSIONS
By going the extra mile and showcasing your skills through a thoughtfully prepared presentation, you demonstrate your proactive nature and the desire to stand out. This level of dedication leaves a lasting impression and allows for a deeper connection with the interviewers.
As you confidently enter the interview room armed with your presentation, you convey to the hiring managers that you are enthusiastic and fully invested in the opportunity. It becomes a platform to not only showcase your qualifications and achievements but also to exhibit your critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills.
Much like the dessert becoming the centerpiece of the party, your interview presentation has the potential to be the highlight of your job interview. It empowers you to shape the narrative, steer the conversation in your favor, and leave a lasting imprint on the interviewers' minds.
However, it is crucial to strike a harmonious balance. Just as you carefully select a dessert that caters to the tastes and preferences of the party attendees, your interview presentation should be tailored to the needs and expectations of the potential employer. Thorough research on the company's challenges, goals, and values allows you to create a presentation that speaks directly to their needs, ensuring it is not only impressive but also relevant and impactful.
So, put on your metaphorical apron, embrace the excitement of the interview, and let's bake up a winning interview presentation that leaves a delectable taste in the minds of the interviewers. Or, if you'd prefer, here's a bonus—the recipe for the mouthwatering New York cheesecake that sparked this delicious analogy. Either way, success is within your reach!
Further reading on Interview Preparation can be found here: