AIBU to take notes in an interview?

[Cottagepieandpeas]

I've just done a mock interview and realised that I am struggling to remember the key points of a question if it's a long one.

(I wonder if this is related to being interviewed on Zoom quite a few times over the last few years, when I have easily been able to jot down a few words off screen)

I also get very nervous and this does not help my memory in that sort of situation.

My next interview is face to face - if you were on the panel would you think any worse of me for writing a few words during a question?

Thanks

I would think more highly of you for taking notes than if you didn't! It shows you are organised, want to ensure you answer properly, and take it seriously.

Thanks everyone. I think it’s a 100% IANBU!

I feel as if I was failing in the past by not taking notes!

I will report back at the end of the week.

@XmasElf10

Wouldn't bother me - I think in writing. I always make notes when I'm thinking.

Me too

I always took notes in interviews, plus I’d take a list of questions for them in too. Interviews are a 2 way thing.

If you want to avoid waffling, I'd second the PP about taking in notes with STAR examples of competencies. Much easier to give a structured answer.

People LOVE when you jot down a few notes as they speak. Sometimes I just do it even if I don’t need to. I think you will come across well if you take notes. I think it also gives the impression that you’re at a consultation/1:1 meeting which is nicer than sitting there being interviewed meekly.

Just say something like “I hope you don’t mind but I might take a few notes during our conversation so that I capture key points”

IME hiring managers love it when you take notes!

I would actively encourage it!

Of course not

I thought this was normal, I've always done it, everyone I've ever interviewed often does it and it's something many recruiters recommend too

Agree - totally normal, remember being interviewed for a job years ago and the interviewer actually said something like 'I've never known anyone to be so prepared' .... I was offered the job.

Wouldn’t bother me at all - when I intrigued want the candidate to give me the best of themselves so I can assess suitability. If taking notes helps you then go for it

I always write notes in interviews, mainly to help me get a deeper dive on the company I’m interviewing for - there’s only so much info you can get from the internet.

For interviews in my work place it’s recommended. Some of the questions they ask are so complicated as well as the little follow up questions which they ask at the same time.

It’s also a good opportunity for you take 30 seconds to think your answer through

Do you mean taking pre-prepared notes in with you, or taking a notepad and making notes while you're there?

I'd find the former weird but the second fine.

@GreenFingersWouldBeHandy

Do you mean taking pre-prepared notes in with you, or taking a notepad and making notes while you're there?

I'd find the former weird but the second fine.

I meant the second - I have my notebook and pen in my folder already.