LISNews: Librarian News

Thanks! It did, apparently, go very well. They started contacting references just a couple hours after the interview. But, it's an academic position, so will creep along.

Let me add my good wishes to Shoe's. I missed your post in part because I've been on the other side of the desk having people interview with me all week!I hope you get this job, and so won't have any more interviews to stress through. But if not, I have some tips that would help folks interviewing at my library (WE HAVE NO LIBRARIAN JOBS YET -- SORRY!):1) If you arrive early for the interview, wait until a minute or two before your appointment before announcing yourself. This helps you in two ways:
    a) It gives you a chance to look around the library without a minder. Soak in the atmosphere, take in the vibes, check out their periodicals, whatever.
    b) There is an excellent chance that the person you are interviewing with is extremely busy with another project or possibly, another job candidate. Announcing yourself too early interrupts them and adds to their stress levels.2) Come prepared with specific examples of either how you handled real-life work situations, or at least how you would handle one if it came up (difficult patrons, censorship, FBI, relations with coworkers, etc.) The more specific you get, the more impressed the interviewers will be with you. Try to avoid saying things like "I never have problems." You won't be believed.3) Be prepared to explain why you want this job. I myself recently applied for another job because I vaguely thought I wanted a change. The question "Why do you want this job?" stopped me cold for at least 30 seconds and haunted me for the whole interview.4) Try reading the book "101 Great Answers to the Toughest Interview Questions" When I was first out of college (pre MLIS) this book really helped me anticipate some curve ball questions. It's still in print and you can find it on Amazon or Barnes and Noble, or perhaps your local independent book store!I'm sorry that this advice is too late, but I hope it comes in handy for you or someone else later! - Daniel

Let us know when the academics creep back in with their decision! Will keep the fingers crossed.