Project Validation

 

The first part of this module consisted of a mock interview with an industry professional in my particular study area. Things have changed drastically with the recruitment and interview process since my last job interview 30 years ago, and while I can see some of the benefits of using AI tools to vet applications at the initial stage, it's very important for the potential employee and employer to meet face to face to get the true essence of the potential employee, I was interviewed by Jo Alexander who is Managing Director at Creative Clique Design and Marketing.  Jo immediately made me feel welcome and relaxed, and we discussed a number of areas, starting with my previous career and moving on to discuss some of the project work that I have undertaken, plus working in a University environment as a mature student and future aspirations. As my last job interview was around 30 years ago, it was a rather strange experience for me but very enjoyable. The main thing was that at previous job interviews I have discussed work that I can do, whereas this time we were discussing work that I love. There is a huge difference if you have genuine love and passion for what you do. The interview seemed to fly by and felt more like an informal chat than an interview. At the end of the process, Jo was able to give me some very useful feedback, assuring me that I was on the right track and doing all of the right things, which was important for me to know. The feedback that I received from Jo was as follows: Great communicator Reflection of project was great Understanding of how to improve the project was fab Passion 100% Inspiring - To take on a degree shows determination Great work John ! Thank you Jo ! It was very reassuring that Jo thought that I was on the right track with my potential future career aspirations and as well as discussing how I might start up a new business, we also discussed some of the challenges faced by mature students, especially extra mature students ! As part of my project research, I wanted to investigate how some small business startups in my interest area had approached their projects. The following video from Third Fret gives a good guide to the "Do's and Don'ts" when setting up a Music Services Business. (Third Fret, 2020)