Interview Prep at Holiday Gatherings

During holiday times, it is likely you will be getting together with a large group of people--this is not a time to be shy about your intentions to compete. I encourage you to talk about your platform and even ask family and friends if they would ask you questions they think a judge would ask you. You've likely heard that advice before, but here is something you might not have heard: If someone has a differing view point than you, rather than arguing with them about it, ask them this: "What makes you feel that way about [this topic]?" Really listen to understand their differing point of view. Then when you have some time to yourself, journal about what you heard and think about what you learned from this exercise. Does it expand the language you use to talk about your platform? Does it prompt you to do a bit more research to find out about another point of view? All of this will help you to be prepared to respond from your heart if you get a similar question during interview.