Interview preparation? What to take....

[lelkins]

Guys,
I'm new here, and need a bit of advice.
I have been fulfilling the role of a CAD Manager for a few years now, and have a few interviews lined up for a true CAD Manager position (job title included...)
My only worry is, at previous interviews I have always been able to rely on my technical ability and CAD management secondary due to it being a split role, however, this role include 0 design/technical work, therefore a portfolio bursting with drawings may not be appropriate. So, I know I can fulfill the role, and have documentation that I have produced to back up that statement (such as SMP's, FAQ's, training guides, filing systems, etc.). But is there anything I may be overlooking, or any advice that you can give on what items and documentation may be benficial to take with me.
First interview is on monday, so only have this weekend to prepare, therefore any rapid responses would be GREATLY appreciated.

Many thanks to all.

[Alan.Habib]

Guys,
I'm new here, and need a bit of advice.
I have been fulfilling the role of a CAD Manager for a few years now, and have a few interviews lined up for a true CAD Manager position (job title included...)
My only worry is, at previous interviews I have always been able to rely on my technical ability and CAD management secondary due to it being a split role, however, this role include 0 design/technical work, therefore a portfolio bursting with drawings may not be appropriate. So, I know I can fulfill the role, and have documentation that I have produced to back up that statement (such as SMP's, FAQ's, training guides, filing systems, etc.). But is there anything I may be overlooking, or any advice that you can give on what items and documentation may be benficial to take with me.
First interview is on monday, so only have this weekend to prepare, therefore any rapid responses would be GREATLY appreciated.

Many thanks to all.

I would say to focus your weekend efforts on highlighting your people skills and ability to think above the technology, more management perspective, for the interview. Also make sure you have all your research up and down on their company so you are projecting that you do your homework and that you really want to work for that company. For the management perspective, you might want to read some of Robert Green's articles that are oriented to the big picture for CAD Managers. Maybe putting together some of his ROI's that would show what you accomplished in your CAD management experience in terms of real business value (dollars and cents) for your current company as opposed to stuff that you did that was just technically "cool."

[Avatart]

I would say to focus your weekend efforts on highlighting your people skills and ability to think above the technology, more management perspective, for the interview. Also make sure you have all your research up and down on their company so you are projecting that you do your homework and that you really want to work for that company. For the management perspective, you might want to read some of Robert Green's articles that are oriented to the big picture for CAD Managers. Maybe putting together some of his ROI's that would show what you accomplished in your CAD management experience in terms of real business value (dollars and cents) for your current company as opposed to stuff that you did that was just technically "cool."

I was going to say refer to Robert Green too, but be a little wary, he is talking about CAD Management in the States, you are in Reading!

What I take along is things like Document Control spreadsheets, some visualisations of jobs I have CAD Managed and some of the sample drawings, the ones that demonstrate how you, as a manager, have helped get the job done, co-ordinated, on time and on budget.

People skills is your most important asset, be friendly, confident and personable.

One sneaky trick; choose what you wear after looking at your prospective employers website. The thing they will most look for is someone who "fits in", make sure that your tie (for example) does not clash heavily with company colours. They will never notice this, but it gives them a sub-concsious message that you are "part of the team".