Completing a task during the interview, or in some cases even at the
application stage of applying for a new role, is a trend that is becoming
the norm with hiring managers and companies. Although applicants might
groan at the time and effort this takes, it is a great way for companies
to compare you to other applicants but also can give you another
opportunity to showcase your skills, creativity and ideas and as a result
the positives of setting a task usually outweigh the negatives.
When preparing the task consider how to reflect your abilities and
really showcase what you will bring to the role if you were to get it. You
will be aware at how varied the tasks set can be from company to company
and therefore making an assessment of the level of work that needs to be
done is important. Some tasks may be a simple ideas project, plan, or
strategy or even a presentation on yourself. All will mean you need to make
sure you prepare, plan, and execute correctly in order to present with
confidence and give yourself the best chance of success.
Analyse what they are asking you to do
It can be fairly overwhelming receiving a task to complete, it’s
important to not rush into things but to really take time figuring out what
they are asking you to do. Put pen to paper and start making notes on
things that come to your head as you’re reading it.
Speak to connections/previous colleagues who are in a similar field
Don’t be shy gaining a second opinion from ideally someone in a similar
department to the role you’re applying for. It is always worth checking
with someone else that your understanding of what needs to be done is
correct.
Read the latest industry news
Before you go full steam ahead check the latest industry news, see if
anything new from the industry has come out that could impact the
department you’re working for and how this might be included.
Start to plan out your points and ideas
Once you feel you have a wider understanding of not only the role and
the industry and what you are being asked to do, start planning! Split the
task up into subtasks and make notes under these areas.
Bulk out your thoughts
Once you have gathered your ideas and thoughts it’s now the time to bulk
out your ideas with facts, imagery and context. Companies love when you
consider the wider market and industry during interview tasks.
Give it your own personal flare
Although the ideas you produce are exceptionally important, it’s also a
great opportunity to showcase any creative abilities you have. Make sure
any task you hand in is not only well presented, a given, but has a little
personal touch to it.
Proofread by a friend or someone in the industry
Once you’ve completed everything to the best of your abilities go back
to the same person that initially analysed the task with you and ask them
to look over what you have produced. This is an important step to make sure
there are not only no mistakes but that you’ve completed the task in full.
Give yourself enough time for this process in case there are any changes
that need to be made.
If necessary, practice!
Sometimes you may be asked to formally or informally present your
presentation. Make sure you practice and time yourself! Practice makes
perfect after all.
This is a great opportunity to prove what you can do, so best of luck
and hand in anything with confidence and excitement.
Photo: Pexels
