Tips to Be Successful at a Placement Exchange

On the last night of a recent placement exchange, I sat down with my colleagues (Taren Reker and Rolando Chacon, Iowa State University) and we all brainstormed tips that helped make our experience successful. The following ideas served the three of us well, so I wanted to share our thoughts.

• Use plastic page protectors and a binder: For each interview include the mission, vision, Job description, highlights of your experiences that will be applicable, Institution Lingo, questions for the interview, and any materials received from them
  
• Have a page of inspiration to look at if you need a boost
  
• Write Thank-you’s as soon as possible after the interview. Choose a couple specific ideas that the interviewer mentioned that really made you excited about the position. Be ready for employers to ask for electronic thank-you’s as a way of promoting sustainability.
  
• Do not compare your conference experience to others; every individual has their own fit.
  
• Talk with other candidates. It will make you feel at ease, and you will meet a lot of people in the field. Employers can get a sense of what you are like outside of the interview if they happen to see how you are interacting with other candidates.
  
• If you are able to, attend with someone you know. You can really help each other understand the process. It is comforting to see familiar faces, and have an outlet to talk about your experiences afterwards.
  
• Take mental breaks. Go for a quick walk outside during your off time. A change of scenery can be refreshing.
  
• Arrive to your interview waiting area early.
  
• Bring snacks to eat throughout the day.
  
• You will get a lot of information about each institution, as well as small gifts. Have a bag to store everything throughout the day.

Finally, recognize that you will be a stronger interviewer after this experience. It may be challenging or even overwhelming at times, but remember to be yourself. Pay attention to institutions that you felt a connection with, and those that may not be the best fit. Best wishes on a successful placement exchange!

Amy Moreno-Kieffer
Co-Editor
Student Affairs Job Hunting Blog