Before your
interview
Deborah Carter of Bexar County poses for a portrait on the set of her “TX Fast Track Program” interview.
A conversation, not a test
You’ve been asked to share your experience in a video. Thank you for considering it. Here is what to expect, so there are no surprises.
There are no right or wrong answers. Nothing is scripted, and there’s nothing to memorize. You just talk, in your own words.
First, a talk with Steffi
Steffi Ockenfels, our executive producer, will talk with you before the shoot, usually at least a week ahead. No crew, no lights. Video call, phone or face to face, whatever is easiest for you. It takes about 20 to 30 minutes.
She’ll ask which language you’d like to speak and explain where the video will be shared. Tell her if there’s anything you’d rather not talk about, or anything that would make the day easier.
What to wear
- Business casual, in clothes you feel good in.
- Solid colors. Medium tones like blue, green or gray look great on camera.
- No thin stripes, small checks or tiny patterns. They can flicker on screen.
- No big logos or words on your clothes.
- No white shirts or sports clothes, like team jerseys.
- No jewelry that jingles. The microphone hears everything.
- If the video is about your job, ask Steffi whether to wear your work clothes.
What to bring
- A second top in a different solid color, just in case
- Your glasses, if you wear them
- Someone you trust for support, if that would help. Please tell Steffi ahead of time.
On the day
- Please arrive 10 minutes before your interview time. If we’re still filming when you get there, please wait quietly outside the room.
- Silence or turn off your phone before your interview.
- Steffi and Carlos Javier Sanchez, our founder, lead every shoot, sometimes with a few more crew members. Steffi will tell you who to expect.
- Before we film, you sign a release that explains how the video may be used.
- Your interview slot is 45 minutes. Most interviews take about 30, so there’s time for breaks.
- We may also film you doing everyday things, like working or walking into a building. Steffi will tell you ahead of time.
- Lost your place? Just say so and start again. Retakes are normal.
Looking right into the camera
Ever wonder how people in our videos look straight into the camera with so much confidence? It’s thanks to an EyeDirect, a mirror in front of the camera lens that shows you Steffi’s face.
You’ll be having a conversation with Steffi through the EyeDirect. You look her in the eye, and on screen you’re looking right at the viewer.
Tips for your answers
- Steffi will send you the questions ahead of time. Read them over, but there’s no need to memorize answers.
- Short, clear answers work best.
- Start your answer by repeating part of the question. If Steffi asks, “How did you first learn about the apprenticeship?” you might begin, “I first heard about the apprenticeship…”
- Take your time. If a question isn’t clear, just ask.
Nervous? That’s normal
Almost everyone feels nervous at first. It helps that you’ll already know Steffi. Shoot day is your second conversation with us.
A special thank you to Steffi, whose warmth and positive energy made a lasting impression. She has a unique way of making people feel comfortable and confident, especially in situations that can feel unfamiliar or intimidating.
English, Spanish or both
Speak in the language that feels most natural to you. Mixing both is fine. Steffi is fully bilingual.
Tell us what you need
Do you use a wheelchair or walker? Need a chair with arms, extra breaks, help reading forms, or an interpreter for ASL or another language? Tell Steffi, and we’ll plan for it together.
Questions before the day?
Call 210-446-7071 or email [email protected]. You can also ask the person at the organization who invited you.
Consent and safety: The people in your story.