Wednesday, October 29, 2008

Nike Ad - Dual Coding Theory

The most effective ads use dual code theory, which use all three of the cognitive systems. The ad activates the audience to use language processing, visual processing and then makes it where the audience will connect the two. In the photo the eye is drawn toward the door frame and it is framed in red. Then, the eye connects this visual to the red writing on the wall. The motto on the wall is associated with sports and then connects the door frame to an opening in a gym. The ad is for Nike and it makes the general public "believe" (since that is what is written in the inside of the door), that if you want to practice like a champion, and be a champion, you should invest in Nike. This ad incorporates dual coding very well, and Nike has already proven to have very effective ads.

Wednesday, October 8, 2008

Mock Interview Reflection

I know that this interview was a mock interview and the purpose behind it was a learning experience to better prepare us for future interviews in the actual working world, but I was nervous. When I walked in I guess not knowing what to expect, or having no way to prepare for what questions were going to be asked because everything is unknown made it stressful. I simply took a deep breath and then took my time answering the questions. I thought about them before I started to answer so I wouldn't studder because I knew that would make me more nervous. As far as the questions asked, most questions did not throw me off. The only one that did was at the end I was asked if I had any questions. I quickly answered, "no" because I wanted the experience over because it made me so nervous. But, now looking back I realize I should at least have a few questions so that I show some interest in the position. I think it reflects positively on you if you are inquisitive. Now I know, next time I will prepare ahead of time for that. Overall, I did learn a lot from this mock interview. I know a little bit more about what sort of questions to expect. I also know that coming with a well prepared resume and cover letter is always a booster. I also think that knowing the company before going and using specific information to them in your answers is helpful as well. I think either way I will be nervous about my interview for my first teaching job, but I do think that this mock interview has helped me become more prepared.

Wednesday, October 1, 2008

Cover Letters (For week of September 14)

I feel most of the website was very helpful when it came to creating an effective website. I loved that fast that they stressed how each cover letter needs to be specific to the company you are applying. They mentioned that when people send out hundreds of cover letters at a time that all they are doing is setting themselves up for failure. The cover letter is directed to the company, and they mentioned that this letter is about them and not you. The resume will provide your information, so the cover letter is a time to build up the company. I think that that bit of infomation is most important to keep in mind for future cover letters. There was one portion of the cover letter website that I did not agree with. They feel writing a hand written P.S. message at the end of the letter is a good idea. I think that this may take away from the professionalism in some cases and should only be used in interviews that are more informal. I was not aware that most interviewers look at the resume first. They don't pay attention to the cover letter until after your resume "passes," but that may be the deciding factor afterwards though.