Interview Techniques

Interview skills are an essential tool for all students at this time as the competition is getting bigger for job vacancies. The reason could be growth in graduation rates, thus there are far more applicants who apply for the same job (Day 2019). Keeping this thing in mind, I designed a learning and development program to train the participants about the interview techniques which would make them stand out in front of the interviewer.

Ensuring own capabilities and readiness to deliver the activity

Reading on the subject

It was very challenging for me to design and execute training and learning activities. The first thing I did was look into several training and development programs carried out in different institutes and organizations. A thorough study of the learning outcomes from all the activities performed was done, to design my training. Therefore, I segmented the program into four stages, lecture, mock interviews, assessment, and feedback.

Practicing training activities 

Practice makes a man perfect. Therefore, I rehearsed and prepared for my lecture several times. The training videos on the internet helped me understand the gestures, posture, and eye contact one must-have for effective delivery of a message. The content being taught was checked again and again for accuracy. I even did a roleplay with my friends where they acted as learners and I delivered them a lecture and designed activities were carried out. Their feedback helped me a lot in improving the program material.

Managing own emotional state and wellness

Handling a lot of things could be frustrating sometimes and eventually affect one’s mental health. The same thing happened to me as I got occupied with the workload. The only things that helped me during that time were the Ted Talks and motivational speeches on the internet. They reduced my stress level, were very encouraging, and kept me emotionally at peace.

Ensuring the availability of space, equipment, and resources for the activity Guidance 

Facilities 

I made sure that the basic facilities for the participants were being provided. Refreshments were given. The students had access to Wi-Fi as well. Also, I kept basic stationery for the learning activities.

Training Area

I chose the training to be carried out in a classroom. The classroom was on the ground floor of the building. The restroom was next to it. It was suitable for carrying the training. 

IT Equipment

I kept a couple of PCs for the participants to use if necessary. Also, there was a projector, sound system, mic, and dice for the effective delivery of training. 

Training Materials

The participants were given handouts that had quotations to motivate them while prepping for the interview. There were videos, pictures for a better understanding of the diverse participants.

Physical and Psychological features of ‘A Positive Learning Environment’ and Steps taken to create One!

One of the most critical components of a skills-based classroom is a positive learning environment. It could be shaped when you value participatory teaching and learning and when there is trust among students and between trainer and participants (Benes & Alperin 2016).