Get your mind out of the gutter. It’s InterviewStream, and how apropos after blogging last week on “Play More.” So I have a suggestion (actually an assignment for those in my marketing class): go play on InterviewStream.
InterviewStream is a web-based service that records you via webcam while you respond to a couple of interview questions from the program. You then can watch and try again and again until you get the answer the way you want. My favorite feature is a counter on screen for you to count all your “like”, “ya know” and other fillers. Then, you send the link to a friend or Career Consultant who can view your answers and give you feedback via the program.*
Our Career Center has recommended InterviewStream the last couple of years. And according to our Google Analytics, few have availed themselves of the pleasure. I asked in a second-year class last week how many students have tried it. One student raised his hand. I asked if he could tell the class what he thought (one lesson a teacher should always heed: never ask a question to which you don’t know the answer). He said something very close to: “It was the most awkward, unpleasant thing I’ve done for my career search…but, it was extremely helpful.” Whew! That was close.
Last week, my emerging favorite second-year student followed my advice and answered two questions for me on InterviewStream before meeting with me. Yes, it was awkward, she said, but incredibly helpful. She re-worked her answers until she felt better about them, then sent it to me. Before I met with her, I spent about 10 minutes reviewing the answers (which were about 3 minutes of actual video). I gave her feedback to think about via email before our meeting that afternoon. She came to the meeting, and we once again viewed the answers, pausing to emphasize areas of strength or concern.
What an incredibly efficient and effective use of time and technology! And it was fun to use as a reviewing device. I felt like I was playing. I felt like a kid again. Okay, so I get carried away. I lost track of time as I was so focused on how could I help this student get this answer to communicate what she hoped it would. I was in the zone. Flow, I think they call it.
Try playing more, this week using InterviewStream.
*Students can use the system in the Library video room (room 182 on the main floor) and in CDC Interview Room 11 (Instructions and a tutorial are available in both rooms). Students may also sign out a loaner webcam for overnight use. Students with their own webcams can use InterviewStream. More information about InterviewStream can be found on the CDC portal.