The Mohawk College PR class recently had the chance to meet our schools own Communications team. To my surprise, guest speakers Jay Robb and Sean Coffey make up the entire Communications department for the college. Robb is director of communications, responsible for communications planning, speech writing, media relations and employee communications, while Coffey is the coordinator; running internal communication like the Mohawk blog, website content, and social media.
Robb and Coffey’s speech to the class was the most informative guest speaker session we’ve had yet. Robb’s main focus was to help us ace job interviews and share tips on what we can do to practice and prepare for them.
Major takeaway tip – start informational interviews now!
- Pick 6 places you want to work and conduct informational interviews.
- Ask a professional what their job description is, what they do, what they like or dislike, and how they got started.
- Don’t ask for a job, but leave a lasting impression that may help you receive job leads from it.
- Make sure you send a thank you letter stating what they helped you learn and your appreciation for their time.
Tips for a great interview
- Be enthusiastic
- Ask more questions then they ask of you
- Know the company you are applying for (make sure you follow them on twitter)
- Be prepared for questions such as “What are you reading?” or “What do you subscribe to?”
Robb and Coffey also put a major emphasis on the importance of writing in public relations. You need to write fast and write well. Practice by taking complex concepts and learn to simplify and explain them.
The speakers shared their advice and experience while inspiring and motivating my job search. The overall key focus of Robb’s advice to us: What you learn is important, but what you do with it now (while you’re here at Mohawk College) will make an impact.
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