THE WAIT IS OVER WALT DISNEY INDUSTRY LEADERS SHARE SPECIAL TIPS ON HOW TO ACE YOUR INTERVIEW

Many HBCU students fear internships because they feel as if HBCU students are overlooked during interview sessions or they don’t have enough experience to qualify. It is time to relax as Hampton University Alumni and Walt Disney industry leaders: Christina Powell, Courtnee Collier and Barry Dillard share special tips that could help students nail their internship interviews on a webinar held on September 10, 2020.

According to the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s Center for Research on College-Workforce Transitions about 43% of HBCU students participate in internships. Many companies are working on diversifying their workplaces and reaching out to HBCUs to advertise their internship opportunities.

There are many ways one can prepare themselves for an interview, but while doing so keep in mind the tips shared by the panelist from Walt Disney.

Tip 1 Communicating clearly

Communication is key in any form of relationship building. It is important to communicate clearly and effectively in an interview setting. The way a candidate communicates guarantees how they will communicate in the work field.

“I think owning your skills as a communicator is one of the best things you can do while you’re in college because it will carry you through any profession you’re in.” said Barry Dillard the Vice President of Risk Management at Walt Disney World.

Tip 2 Research the role you’re applying for

Having background knowledge on the job you are applying for is very important and it shows the interviewer that the candidate is serious about the role they wish to have. It is also important to research because it helps the candidate to understand the culture of the company they are inquiring about.

“It’s important to be knowledgeable of the company, know about what's in the division that you’re interviewing for.” said Christina Powell the Productions Operations at Walt Disney Television.

Tip 3 Update your resume

A resume is an important weapon used in the workforce. It exhibits all of the candidates skills and qualities that allow that first step into the door of professionalism and it's what gets the candidate the interview. It is important to make sure that your resume is up to date and presentable. It shows how competent you are in the role that you are applying for.

“Make sure your resume matches the job description and don’t use the same resume for every job you apply for because it really shows that you researched the role and you are matching the skills you have with the role that you are applying for.” said Courtnee Collier the Public Relations Manager at Walt Disney Resort.

The saying it's not what you know but who know isn’t always true. Putting forth effort and showing dedication will get some very far in life.