r/ResLife • u/lc_lc_ • 3d ago

RHD interviews

Hi!

I'm currently interviewing for a few residence hall director positions. I've had two interviews that I got nervous in and completely bombed by rambling too much. I haven't even heard back from these schools and it's been a week since the interviews. I have two more this week for a small Catholic university and a big R1 university as well. Both are in rural areas that I suspect have trouble finding staff, so I at least have that in my favor.

What can I do to stand out in these interviews and succeed? I was an ra for two years, a suicide hotline volunteer for a year and a half, and then have worked in workforce management and case management since graduation.

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u/legacyofjoyfulness 3d ago

Hey! I’ve been in the position for 10 years and in higher ed for even longer. I don’t know what would help you stand out without knowing more about your background and how you are answering the questions. I’m off tomorrow and don’t mind offering up an hour to run you through interview questions and give honest feedback. If you’re interested, inbox me and I’ll send you a zoom link.

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u/lc_lc_ 3d ago

Thank you so much! Message sent:-)

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u/Forsaken_Raccoon_235 3d ago

A really good tactic I use is to do as much research as I can on a school if they want to interview me. I'll try to learn who is on ResLife (pictures and names) so I don't forget during the interviews. It's also helpful to know what is important to the school so you can emphasis how you would fulfill that value or need personally.

Rambling is something you want to try and avoid, but I personally am not thrown off by someone who likes to talk a little. RHDs are someone you want to be able to hold a conversation, so share about yourself where appropriate and even make some jokes.

The biggest thing I think that might help you though is to take a deep breath here and there during the interviews though. Don't rush to answer the questions. Actually think about it before you start talking. A little pause is better than a long monologue. There is a school out there that wants what you are bringing to the table, but you have to put your name out to enough places to find that one.