[Webinaire] Les clés pour assurer à l'oral et réussir ses entretiens oraux admission

Introduction to the Webinar

Welcome and Overview

• Julie introduces herself as the digital manager for PF, alongside Cécile, a coach and trainer specializing in communication and marketing.

• The webinar aims to provide keys for succeeding in motivation interviews, with Marielle serving as the moderator.

• Participants are encouraged to share their backgrounds and familiarity with PF's campuses across France and Dakar.

Webinar Structure and Participant Engagement

Setting Expectations

• Julie suggests starting with a presentation about the school while addressing technical aspects of sharing screens.

• Cécile takes over to discuss how participants feel about their interview readiness, prompting them to respond via chat.

Gathering Feedback

• A poll is mentioned but not executed; instead, participants are invited to express their feelings regarding upcoming exams or interviews.

• Attendees share mixed feelings about their preparedness, indicating some anxiety while others feel more confident.

Identifying Personal Comfort Levels

Self-Assessment Activity

• Cécile uses an analogy involving animals (like zebras) to help participants identify their comfort levels when speaking publicly or discussing themselves.

Overcoming Challenges

• Discussion on common beliefs that hinder effective oral communication; emphasis on understanding these barriers can aid preparation.

Key Ingredients for Successful Interviews

Essential Components

• Cécile outlines three main points: ingredients for a successful interview, obstacles faced by candidates, and strategies to enhance impact and confidence during presentations.

Speaker Background

• Julie shares her journey from struggling with public speaking at a young age to becoming a coach who helps others improve their communication skills.

What to Expect in a Motivational Interview?

Understanding the Interview Process

• The speaker discusses the importance of being oneself during an interview, emphasizing that it is not about performing incredible feats but rather presenting one's true self.

• Interviews are framed as exchanges where candidates should take time to introduce themselves and share their personality with the jury.

• The jury seeks to understand candidates' motivations and specific qualities, highlighting that motivation is crucial for success in these interviews.

Preparing for the Interview

• Candidates should view the interview as a mutual exchange rather than a judgmental process; it's an opportunity for both parties to assess fit.

• The format of interviews typically lasts between 20 to 30 minutes, structured around three main segments: introduction by the jury, candidate presentation, and Q&A.

• Specific programs may require interviews (e.g., Bachelor’s programs or international courses), which serve to gauge candidates' readiness and motivation for studying abroad.

Presentation Techniques

• Candidates are encouraged to prepare a brief personal pitch lasting about 2–3 minutes, akin to an "elevator pitch," where they succinctly present who they are.

• During this pitch, candidates should aim for clarity and impact within a limited timeframe while also engaging with questions from the jury afterward.

Reflecting on Personal Qualities

• Preparation involves reflecting on personal strengths, values, and experiences that have shaped one’s identity—essentially knowing oneself well before entering the interview room.

• Candidates must articulate their motivations clearly; understanding how their past experiences align with future aspirations is vital for effective communication during interviews.

Future Aspirations

• It's important for candidates to project into their future goals—what type of engineer they aspire to be and what changes they wish to contribute towards in society.

• This forward-thinking approach helps frame responses during interviews and demonstrates ambition beyond just securing admission into a program.

Understanding the Path to Higher Education

Reflecting on Educational Choices

• The importance of reflecting on educational choices and preparing points for discussions during interviews is emphasized, particularly when applying to institutions like LEEP or other post-baccalaureate schools.

• Candidates should consider why they are drawn to specific schools or programs, such as bachelor's degrees that offer a more practical approach to projects.

Evaluating School Offerings

• Different programs within the same school may have varying structures regarding study organization, pedagogy, internships, and international opportunities.

• Prospective students should research school offerings, including associations and open days, to identify what interests them about the institution.

Identifying Strengths and Values

• It's crucial for candidates to understand the strengths of the school they are applying to—such as alumni networks, rankings, corporate relationships, and institutional values—to prepare effectively for interviews.

Preparing for Self-Presentation

• Students need to draft their arguments and prepare a personal pitch that highlights their strengths without coming across as boastful; authenticity is key in self-presentation.

• Being invited for an interview indicates interest from the school; candidates should maintain confidence throughout this process.

Articulating Personal Experiences

• Candidates should share concrete experiences rather than vague statements about curiosity; illustrating qualities with specific examples enhances credibility.

• Discussing passions—both academic and extracurricular—can energize presentations and foster engagement during interviews.

Emphasizing Authenticity in Interviews

• A well-known quote by Oscar Wilde encourages candidates to be themselves during interviews instead of trying to emulate others. This authenticity can attract positive attention from interviewers.

Structuring Your Pitch Effectively

• The pitch serves as a response when asked to introduce oneself; it should include key points that allow interviewers to engage further with the candidate's narrative.

• Presentations should be concise (around 200–250 words), providing essential information while allowing room for spontaneity in responses.

By following these guidelines and insights derived from the transcript, prospective students can better navigate their educational journeys and present themselves effectively during admissions processes.

Career Pitch Preparation

Crafting Your Identity and Professional Goals

• Introduce yourself with a personal touch, including your name, specialty, and educational background. Highlight your motivation for becoming an engineer and the specific school or program you are applying to.

• Discuss your professional project beyond just becoming an engineer. Share any relevant strengths, academic achievements, and linguistic experiences that support your aspirations.

• Focus on relevant experiences such as internships or projects that align with your career path. It's not necessary to mention unrelated experiences; stay focused on what supports your goals.

Key Components of Your Presentation

• Identify passions in sports, culture, or arts that have helped develop key skills. These elements can enhance your profile and demonstrate what drives you towards this field.

• While structuring your pitch is important, feel free to organize it in a way that feels natural to you. The essential points should reflect who you are and why you're motivated to join the program.

Preparing for the Oral Presentation

• Write down your pitch initially; improvisation may not yield the best results during the actual presentation day. Preparation is crucial for success.

• Practice by timing yourself while presenting aloud. This helps identify areas where written content may not translate well into spoken language.

Practicing Delivery Techniques

• Record yourself multiple times (at least five). This allows you to recognize speech patterns and hesitations that could be improved for a smoother delivery.

• Conduct practice sessions with friends or family members who can provide constructive feedback on your presentation style.

Understanding Interview Dynamics

• Typically, interviews are conducted while seated rather than standing. This format allows for a more comfortable exchange between candidates and interviewers.

Anticipating Common Interview Questions

• Be prepared for common questions like "Tell me about yourself." Use this opportunity to maintain high energy levels throughout your introduction.

Presenting Strengths and Weaknesses

• When discussing qualities or weaknesses, frame them positively. Acknowledge human imperfections while emphasizing growth from those challenges.

• Provide examples illustrating both strengths and weaknesses; show self-awareness regarding areas needing improvement without resorting to clichés like "I'm a perfectionist."

By following these structured guidelines in preparing for interviews or presentations, candidates can effectively communicate their qualifications while showcasing their unique personalities and motivations.

Understanding Project Imperfections and Personal Growth

The Challenge of Perfectionism in Engineering Projects

• Emphasizes the issue of perfectionism in engineering, where a project may never be completed due to constant revisions and self-doubt.

• Highlights the importance of recognizing acceptable flaws; being consistently late is an example that would not be well-received by evaluators.

Reflecting on Successes and Failures

• Discusses the necessity for candidates to identify both their successes and failures, showcasing resilience in overcoming challenges.

• Questions about professional projects are common; students should articulate their motivations for pursuing engineering without needing to have a long-term plan.

Insights into Group Work Experience

• Candidates should prepare to discuss their experiences with teamwork, as many educational programs value collaborative project work.

• Encourages using diverse experiences (e.g., sports or dance) to illustrate teamwork skills beyond academic settings.

Identifying Personal Achievements

• Suggests that personal success stories can vary widely; students might struggle to recognize their achievements due to high self-expectations.

• Students are encouraged to share past academic struggles if they demonstrate growth and learning from those experiences.

The Importance of Self-Awareness

• Stresses the need for humility when discussing failures; understanding one's shortcomings can lead to personal development.

• Encourages reflection on past mistakes as opportunities for growth while also celebrating individual successes, whether collective or personal.

Preparing for Interviews: Autonomy and Initiative

• Highlights the significance of demonstrating autonomy, especially for programs requiring international experience early on.

• Recommends sharing any independent initiatives taken in various contexts (e.g., travel or leadership roles).

Anticipating Interview Questions

• Mentions typical interview questions regarding summer plans, which help assess a candidate's foresight and planning abilities.

• Advises candidates to prepare thoughtful questions for interviewers, enhancing engagement during discussions about educational programs.

Preparation for Jury Questions in Interviews

Importance of Asking Thoughtful Questions

• It's crucial to prepare insightful questions that go beyond basic information available on the school's website, demonstrating your curiosity and engagement.

• If the jury answers your prepared questions during the exchange, acknowledge this by referencing their responses as part of the conversation.

Crafting Your Responses

• There are no right or wrong answers; focus on articulating your personal views clearly and confidently. This mindset is essential when preparing your arguments.

• Use simple sentences and precise language while avoiding colloquial expressions, as you are addressing a formal audience (the jury). Aim for positive phrasing in your statements.

Avoiding Clichés and Maintaining Authenticity

• Steer clear of overused phrases like "I am very motivated" or "I love challenges." Instead, provide concrete examples to support your claims and maintain authenticity in your presentation.

• Be mindful of filler words or phrases that can detract from your message; practice recording yourself to identify these habits.

The Impact of Non-Verbal Communication

• A significant portion (80%) of communication impact comes from non-verbal cues rather than just verbal content; pay attention to body language, tone, and facial expressions.

• Your posture, eye contact, and overall demeanor contribute greatly to how you are perceived by the jury—maintain an open stance and engage with them directly through eye contact.

Vocal Delivery and Energy Levels

• Practice vocal delivery as it significantly affects how your message is received; ensure congruence between what you say and how you express it vocally. A lack of energy can undermine even strong content.

• Being aware of physical presence—whether seated or standing—is vital; maintain a grounded posture with both feet on the floor to project confidence regardless of nervousness.

Building Rapport Through Body Language

• Smiling not only boosts your confidence but also creates a positive atmosphere for interaction with the jury; it's a simple yet effective way to establish rapport.

• Avoid distracting gestures such as fidgeting with hands or feet during presentations; these can divert attention away from what you're saying and diminish focus on key points being communicated.

Understanding Stress and Public Speaking

The Nature of Stress in Public Speaking

• The speaker acknowledges the potential for losing focus during public speaking, which may reveal internal stress that is not outwardly displayed.

• Emphasizes the importance of grounding oneself by imagining being an anchored tree, which can instill confidence even when time is limited for exercises.

• Suggests maintaining a stable posture with feet firmly on the ground to enhance dynamism while speaking; crossing legs should be avoided.

• Advises against fidgeting with jewelry or hair, especially if these actions are habitual tics; encourages mindful breathing and smiling during presentations.

Overcoming Fear of Public Speaking

• Identifies fear as a common obstacle in preparation for public speaking, often more intense than the fear of death for many individuals.

• Introduces "glossophobia," the fear of public speaking, and reassures that experiencing anxiety is normal.

• Encourages self-reflection on what lies behind this fear, often linked to concerns about judgment from others and the desire to please them.

Managing Anxiety During Presentations

• Discusses how understanding one's worth can alleviate stress; presenting oneself authentically can reduce anxiety levels significantly.

• Highlights that while some stress can motivate action, excessive stress leads to cognitive blockages where one forgets prepared material.

• Explains that stress responses are rooted in primitive brain functions related to survival instincts; recognizing this can help manage reactions during presentations.

Techniques for Calming Nerves

• Describes instinctive reactions to perceived danger (e.g., fleeing or confronting), drawing parallels between these reactions and feelings experienced before public speaking engagements.

• Recommends deep breathing as a method to regain composure when feeling overwhelmed during a presentation.

• Urges speakers to rationalize their fears by questioning whether their audience poses any real threat—reminding themselves they are simply there to listen.

Building Confidence in Communication Skills

• Acknowledges initial nervousness as acceptable; it indicates investment in the outcome of the presentation.

• Challenges beliefs around needing to be completely calm or someone else entirely when presenting; authenticity is key.

• Encourages creating an ideal version of oneself for presentations—acting 'as if' can help build confidence over time through practice.

By following these insights and techniques, individuals can better navigate their fears associated with public speaking and improve their overall communication skills effectively.

How to Prepare for an Interview

Building Confidence and Overcoming Self-Doubt

• Emphasize finding at least one strength, especially if you feel inadequate in oral presentations. Reflect on past successful experiences that can boost your confidence.

• Understand that perfection does not exist; approach interviews with the mindset that they are not life-or-death situations. Have backup plans to alleviate pressure.

• Believe in your value; being convincing requires self-belief. Visualize a positive outcome for the interview rather than focusing on worst-case scenarios.

Preparation Strategies

• Prepare thoroughly by practicing, visualizing success, and ensuring appropriate attire. Aim for a polished appearance without overdoing it (e.g., no need for formal wear like tuxedos).

• Arrive early to reduce stress before the interview. Consider adopting a power pose (like Wonder Woman) to enhance confidence and project positivity.

Engaging with the Interview Panel

• Maintain a positive attitude and enthusiasm during the interview. View the jury as supportive listeners rather than judges, fostering an atmosphere of understanding.

• Listen actively during the conversation; don’t hesitate to ask clarifying questions or reformulate inquiries if needed. Remember to express gratitude at the end of the interview.

Dress Code Insights

• Dress comfortably yet appropriately; avoid feeling overdressed or underdressed. A polo shirt or smart casual attire is often suitable instead of formal suits unless accustomed to them.

• Avoid overly casual clothing such as ripped jeans or hoodies while still being true to yourself—find a balance between comfort and professionalism.

Pitching Yourself Effectively

• Focus on presenting key points concisely during your pitch; avoid overwhelming details within limited time frames (2–3 minutes).

• Use personal experiences (like scouting roles) as examples of skills developed but emphasize what those experiences taught you about teamwork and autonomy rather than just listing activities.

This structured approach will help candidates prepare effectively for interviews by building confidence, preparing adequately, engaging positively with interviewers, dressing appropriately, and pitching themselves succinctly.

Webinar Wrap-Up and Future Events

Conclusion of the Webinar

• Participants expressed gratitude for the session, indicating it was helpful in preparing for interviews.

• Encouragement was given to maintain a positive attitude as a key factor in success.

Upcoming Events

• A meeting is scheduled for June 1st at 6 PM, focusing on preparation tips for the grand oral presentation, particularly for terminal students. Discussion will include eloquence and related topics.

• Another webinar is planned for March 22nd at either 6 PM or 7 PM, aimed at addressing questions about Parcoursup and PF (presumably referring to a specific educational program). Students from EPF will participate to share insights about the school.

Engagement Opportunities

• Attendees are encouraged to visit EPF in person, meet current students, and ask questions directly. Communication can also be established via email at communication@epf.fr.

• Information regarding an upcoming Open House Day (JPO) in June will be shared by Marielle through posted links during the session. The invitation extends beyond just these open days to ensure all inquiries are addressed effectively.