You've been applying to hundreds of jobs this week. Your top two options also chose you! Congratulations! They scheduled the interview and you are almost ready to secure your new position, all you have to do is ace the interview. Not difficult at all, right? Maybe not, but are you willing to take a chance when you are this close to your goal?
The best way to prepare for anything is to practice. In this case, you could spend hours in front of the mirror or rehearsing with someone else, or you can begin creating (or fine-tuning) your interview portfolio.
An interview portfolio offers you a competitive advantage to stand out from the ground and let your new employer know you are not only the best candidate but also a hard worker and able to organize yourself for future endeavors.
Your goal in creating this is to create an experience for the hiring manager and get them to visualize you solving problems for them. The portfolio sends a clear message, "I don't just want a job... I want [THIS] job."
How to Create an Interview Portfolio
An interview portfolio typically consists of 6 parts. An Introduction, Summary of professional experience, STAR examples demonstrating problem-solving skills (Situation/Task, Approach, and Results), Recommendations and awards, Sample work, and a Concluding page. Another key component is to ensure your resume is customized for the opportunity. Also, those of us that are still addicted to using paper (we have to collectively work through this), feel free to bring a paper version to share in the interview. The rest of us who have already made the leap to digital platforms can easily create a digital version to email the organization right before your interview slot or simply bring a digital device to show it during the interview.
It can't hurt to try. There are several sites that will help you build an interview portfolio, listed below. Even if it is outside of your comfort zone, the activities in this section can guide you easily through including the pertinent materials and images on an easy to access digital platform. Some sites you can use include: Clippings me (minimum cost), Wix (free), Wordpress (free options) and Dunked (ideal for professionals; has a cost).
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