Flora Jo helping me teach interview etiquette – before passing on the crown ❤️✨

Flora Jo Helping Me Teach Interview Etiquette – Before Passing on the Crown ❤️✨

As the seasons change and life moves forward, there comes a time when wisdom is meant to be passed down. It’s a natural cycle – one that not only signifies growth but also highlights the importance of mentorship, guidance, and preparing the next generation for what lies ahead. At the heart of this is Flora Jo, a mentor and a friend who has shaped me in ways I could never fully describe. And now, before she passes on the crown of leadership, she’s helping me teach one of the most important lessons for success: interview etiquette.

For those of us who’ve had the privilege of working with Flora Jo, it’s impossible to overlook the graceful yet fierce way she navigates the world. She carries herself with an air of dignity and poise, always grounded in kindness but never afraid to take charge when the moment calls for it. Her experience in leadership has been a beacon, guiding countless individuals through the maze of professional growth. As someone who will soon take on more responsibility, I’ve come to realize that mastering interview etiquette isn’t just about showing up in a well-pressed suit or having the perfect answers—it’s about embodying respect, confidence, and authenticity.

Learning the Basics with Flora Jo

I’ll never forget the first time Flora Jo invited me into her office to discuss the importance of interviews. At the time, I was preparing for a big opportunity, and she could see my nervous energy. “It’s not about impressing them,” she said, “it’s about showing them the best version of yourself—authentic, confident, and willing to learn.”

With that simple piece of advice, she set the stage for everything else I would learn. We talked about posture, eye contact, and how to respond to questions in a way that shows thoughtfulness and clarity. Flora Jo emphasized that in an interview, your body language speaks volumes before you even open your mouth. “Stand tall, sit up straight, and let your presence fill the room,” she advised. “But don’t overdo it. Confidence is quiet, not brash.”

As we went through the basics, Flora Jo shared her own experiences. She spoke of moments where she had to interview for leadership positions, where the pressure was intense and the stakes high. Yet, no matter how nervous she might have felt inside, she maintained a calm, collected exterior, always coming back to the core principles of professionalism. Listening to her stories, I began to realize that interview etiquette wasn’t just about knowing what to say—it was about how you made others feel in your presence.

Practical Tips for Success

Flora Jo’s approach was never theoretical. She always focused on practical, actionable advice that could be immediately applied. Over time, she helped me refine my own approach to interviews, making sure I understood that the little things often made the biggest impact.

1. The Importance of First Impressions
Flora Jo taught me that the first few seconds of an interview could make or break the conversation. A firm handshake (but not too firm), a warm smile, and a simple “It’s so nice to meet you” go a long way. “You’ve already earned the right to be there,” she’d remind me. “So carry yourself with the confidence of someone who knows their worth.”

2. The Power of Listening
One of the most powerful tools in an interview, Flora Jo emphasized, is active listening. “Sometimes the best response is not your answer, but your ability to listen deeply and respond thoughtfully,” she said. “You have to be present in the moment, not just thinking about your next answer.”

3. The Art of Storytelling
We also spent time discussing the art of storytelling. In interviews, it’s easy to get lost in bullet points or technical jargon. Flora Jo stressed the importance of weaving personal stories into your responses to demonstrate experience and character. “A well-told story sticks in people’s minds longer than a list of skills,” she explained.

4. Gratitude and Follow-up
Another essential part of the process was the follow-up. Flora Jo was adamant about sending a thoughtful thank-you note after each interview. “It shows professionalism and respect, and it gives you one more chance to remind them why you’re the right fit.” These small gestures were part of what made her a leader in every sense of the word.

Passing on the Crown: My Turn to Lead

Now, as Flora Jo prepares to pass on the crown and step into a new chapter of her life, I feel a deep sense of gratitude. The interview etiquette she instilled in me is more than just a skill—it’s part of her legacy.

Passing on the crown isn’t just about handing over responsibilities; it’s about sharing the knowledge, values, and principles that shape true leadership. Flora Jo has shown me that leadership is not about being the loudest in the room, but about being the most present, the most thoughtful, and the most grounded. It’s about cultivating an environment where others can shine, feel heard, and grow.

As I take on the mantle and begin to mentor others, I think back to Flora Jo’s lessons. I want to be the kind of mentor she has been to me—someone who lifts others up, who teaches not just skills, but the heart of what makes those skills impactful. And when the time comes, I will be ready to pass on the crown, just as Flora Jo did for me. It’s not the crown that matters, after all—it’s the way we wear it and the legacy we leave behind.

As Flora Jo steps into this new chapter, I know she’s left me with everything I need to continue this work, to guide others with grace, and to carry forward her lessons. Her wisdom, passed down through every word and every action, will continue to guide me as I teach others not only about interview etiquette, but about the art of living and leading with heart.

Thank you, Flora Jo, for helping me learn to be the best version of myself—and for showing me how to pass on that wisdom with love and integrity. ❤️✨

 

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