interview COACHING
ERC 2023 Stg/COG calls
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SCOPE
The key to a successful interview is transmitting the proposed research in a compelling and convincing way in a very short time frame. Most researchers struggle with adapting the narrative to fit the audience (panel members), often focusing excessively on technical details rather than “zooming out” and providing a broader context. Another typical mistake is to try to summarise all aspects of the project, instead of identifying key messages.
We help applicants make the most of their opportunity and prepare a strategy for how to impress the reviewers, while convincingly answering their questions. We offer personalized interview preparation training with the aim to sharpen the transmitted message, develop a clear storyline and provide extensive rehearsal opportunities. Our service should be seen as complementary to other mock trial interviews held in front of a variety of audiences, including senior scientific colleagues from the same/adjacent field(s), as it is important to mimic the diverse composition of the panel as much as possible.
Our support includes:
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PREPARATORY GUIDANCE AND OVERVIEW
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Success Strategies for your ERC Interview (35 min; video)
This Preparatory Video delivers initial guidelines on crafting the narrative and emphasises addressing three fundamental questions: Why this project? Why now? Why me? Additionally, it provides guidance on how to structure an engaging and persuasive presentation.
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Identifying key messages and challenges (1 hour; one coach)
In Session 1, we engage in an informal discussion with the PI about the project, with the objective of identifying key messages. We focus on the project´s strengths and weaknesses, assisting the candidate in pinpointing vital aspects to highlight during the presentation and discuss any perceived challenges related to the interview.
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INDIVIDUAL INTERVIEW COACHING
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Giving shape to your presentation (1.5 hours; two coaches)
Prior to Session 2, candidates are expected to prepare a first draft of their presentation. This session entails a mock trial presentation or a generic review, depending on the state of the presentation and the candidate´s preferences, accompanied by comprehensive feedback on content, structure, and presentation design, including slide design, visual narrative, and graphical profile.
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Mock interview and Q&A session (1.5 hours; two coaches)
Session 3 replicates the interview setting, including a Q&A session. Here, we provide feedback on presentation content, delivery techniques, including verbal and non-verbal communication, pace, confidence, audience engagement, and the performance during the Q&A session. Additionally, we prepare the candidate for recurring questions, addressing scientific disputes, and anticipating potential interview concerns.
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Our mission is to foster efficient project communication and steer candidates through the interview process, culminating in a successful ERC application. To realise this goal, we adapt our training sessions to meet each applicant´s requirements. Our service should be seen as complementary to other mock trial interviews held in front of a variety of audiences, including senior scientific colleagues from the same or related fields, as it is important to mimic the diverse composition of the panel as much as possible.
Want more information?
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For more information and to book an individual interview preparation package, please contact me below.