Interview Presentations
Presentations
As an adjuct to the ST interview, presentations involve having the candidate deliver a presentation either pre-prepared or ‘blind’.
Some prior notice should really be given to applicants of this interview method in order for them to prepare themselves for the task at hand. By requesting candidates to organise and deliver their presentation, and in some cases to guide/lead discussions afterward, interview panel members could see the applicant’s skills of written and verbal presentation, analytic thinking and coherent thinking, evidence of their professional/academic knowledge and values.
Presentations could also be utilized to judge an applicant’s degree of understanding of a designated subject matter as well as the ability to provide information presented at a level that is appropriate for the selection panel.
Rehearse using an overhead projector, flip chart or other visual aids before the day. Practice in front of your mother, father, brother, sister, friend, spouse, work colleagues and enquire from them how your presenting is received.
An overhead projector slide with too much data on it might be unhelpful and distracting for the panel, especially if they cannot read it.
Do not use a script. Use bullet points for your main topics and expand your dialogue with small index cards with written notes on them to remind yourself of what you plan to say.
Plan your presentation in a systematic and structured format. Presentations are time bound so ensure you do not go over your time, as you will lose valuable marks.
