SMPS San Diego Hosts AEC Interview Training with JD Clockadale
Posted by [email protected] on Jan. 26, 2026 / Event Recap / Subscribe 0
SMPS San Diego recently hosted a sold-out interview training workshop led by JD Clockadale, President of Clockadale Communications. The session brought together marketers, business developers, and technical professionals focused on strengthening their interview preparation approach.
Takeaway #1: Strong interviews require more time than most teams plan for.
One of the most valuable insights from the workshop was JD’s clear guidance on preparation time. According to JD, successful interview prep requires 8–10 hours of focused effort, along with three to four full rehearsals. Putting a number to the process frames interview prep as a structured, intentional effort and gives teams a clear way to plan, prioritize, and align internally.
Takeaway #2: Interviews should center on the client, not the firm.
Throughout the session, JD consistently reinforced the importance of shifting the focus to the client. Instead of concentrating on what firms want to say, teams should challenge themselves to think about what the audience wants and needs to hear.
Takeaway #3: Authenticity and likability matter.
An interactive presentation exercise underscored the role of authenticity in building connection during interviews. JD emphasized that credibility is strengthened when presenters show up as themselves, rather than relying on overly scripted responses. The exercise reinforced that interviews are not just about expertise, but about how teams communicate and relate to the people across the table.
JD’s high-energy delivery and interactive approach reinforced a central message of the workshop: strong interviews are built through preparation, clarity, and genuine connection. By combining practical structure with human-centered communication, the session offered tools participants can carry into their next pursuit with confidence.
SMPS San Diego extends its thanks to JD Clockadale, DLR Group, and Owen Ekstrom of 321 Media for supporting a sold-out program that delivered meaningful, actionable insight for the chapter’s marketing, business development, and technical professionals.
0 Comments