In athletic communications, interviews aren’t just about answering questions.
They’re auditions.
Hiring managers aren’t only evaluating what you say — they’re evaluating how you communicate.
Your clarity.
Your structure.
Your tone.
Your preparation.
In many ways, the interview is the most important piece of communication you’ll produce in the hiring process.
You’re Always Telling a Story
Every answer you give tells a story about how you think and how you work.
Strong interview answers:
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Are organized
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Provide context
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Highlight impact
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End with results or reflection
Rambling answers, vague examples, or surface-level responses signal a lack of preparation — even if your experience is solid.
Before interviews, prepare story banks around:
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Writing and content creation
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Media relations scenarios
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Crisis or high-pressure moments
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Collaboration with coaches or staff
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Times you had to adapt quickly
If you can frame your experiences clearly, you demonstrate the exact skill set the role requires.
Answer Like You’d Write
Think of your interview responses the same way you’d approach a recap or feature:
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Lead: Set the scene
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Details: Explain your role and actions
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Outcome: Share the result or lesson
Example structure:
“In my role at ___, we faced ___. My responsibility was ___. I approached it by ___. The result was ___, and what I learned was ___.”
This keeps answers concise, focused, and effective.
Preparation Is Respect
Research the department thoroughly.
Know:
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The sports they emphasize
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Recent accomplishments
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Their communication style
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Staff structure
When you reference specific teams, initiatives, or challenges, it shows investment.
Generic answers suggest generic interest.
Your Questions Matter as Much as Your Answers
Strong candidates ask thoughtful questions.
Examples:
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How does the department define success in this role?
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What communication platforms are you looking to grow?
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How do staff members collaborate during peak seasons?
Avoid questions easily answered on the website.
Your questions should reflect curiosity, awareness, and long-term thinking.
Follow-Up Reinforces the Impression
Thank-you notes after interviews are essential.
Reference:
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A specific topic discussed
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Your enthusiasm for the role
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How your skills align with their needs
It’s your final piece of communication in the process.
Make it count.
Final Thought
Interviewing like a communicator means:
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Preparing stories
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Communicating clearly
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Listening actively
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Following up professionally
If you treat the interview as content — structured, intentional, and audience-focused — you’ll stand out.
Because at the end of the day, the interview is a communication test.
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