Let’s face it, the thought of interviewing for a job or fellowship can be scary. How should I prepare? What will they ask? What if I don’t know how to answer their questions? …. These are all common concerns and completely normal to experience.
In this workshop, different types of interviews will be outlined and strategies presented to prepare for them. Ways of showcasing your skills and expertise through your interview answers will be provided, as will strategies for answering those difficult questions.
Consideration will also be given to the types of questions you can ask during an interview, and how to deal with any interview anxiety. Throughout the workshop you will get to practice the techniques described and develop your interview technique using real job applications as inspiration.
About the presenter
Dr Rachael Pitt is an expert in doctoral and researcher development, education, and careers. She is the HDR Careers Advisor in the Graduate School and a Lecturer in Professional Learning in Higher Education with the Institute for Teaching and Learning Innovation (ITaLI) at UQ.
About Career planning
Book an appointment with the Graduate School's HDR Careers Advisor
Many research students intend to follow an academic career path on completion of their degree. But what does an academic career really look like? And, if you knew what to expect, would you still wish to pursue that path?
Researchers work in all facets of government, industry, NGOs and universities. Understanding the diverse range of career options available will allow you to reflect on the 'fit' between academia and your own strengths and interests.
It is important to start considering your options and plan for your post-HDR career during your studies so you are well prepared to transition to the workplace as a PhD or MPhil qualified individual. The Graduate School supports you in this process through the Career Development Framework (CDF) as well as with a dedicated HDR Careers Advisor who specialises in advising HDR candidates. The Careers Advisor is available for appointments to discuss career options, CV development, interview techniques and other career-related topics. These appointments are designed to complement the existing suite of career-related workshops which are already offered as part of the CDF.
Useful links
- The 'What Next?' video: Career planning during your PhD: A PhD by itself is rarely enough to launch a career these days, whether in academia or anywhere else. So what else should PhD students do, apart from working on their thesis, to become employable? The 'What Next?' Video offers practical advice for becoming employable.
- 50x PhD career success stories in non-academic positions
- The Versatile PhD: Career Finder
- Is an academic career right for you?
- Non Academic Careers for PhD Holders
- Wide-ranging list of Propel your career into life sciences webinar series from Life Sciences Queensland, of which UQ is a member. Signing up is free for members. Webinars run from October 2020 to July 2021. Topics include understanding career opportunities and planning for careers in the biosciences and medical sector, intellectual property, commercialisation, science communication, and government policy and advocacy.
- UK's Vitae for early career researchers. Sign up for an account using your UQ email and get access to the member's area. For instance, see sample CVs and career desintations. Be aware that these are very UK-centric.
- Edwin Trevor-Roberts YouTube channel