What’s a mock interview, and how can participating in one help you get a new job? One of the hardest things about getting hired is interviewing. Even if you’ve been interviewed many times, it can be stressful. You’re on the spot, and you need to come up with answers to interview questions without waiting too long to respond.
There are ways you can practice interviewing, both in person and online, so you’re prepared to make the best impression and ace the interview. One of those ways is to participate in a mock interview, which is very similar to an actual job interview, other than you’re not getting hired. With some mock interviews, you’ll even be able to practice interviewing specifically for a role just like the one you’re a candidate for in real life.
Here’s what you need to know about mock interviews, what they are and how they work, and how to find and schedule a practice interview to help you prepare for the interview process.
What is a Mock Interview?
A mock interview is a simulated job interview designed to help you practice and prepare for an actual job interview. Mock interviews can be conducted in person or online:
- They can be conducted in person or virtually by experienced professionals, career coaches, peers, networking connections, or even family who can provide feedback and guidance.
- Other options for mock interviews include online interview practice tools (many are free) that ask questions and evaluate your responses, and virtual in-person practice interviewing on websites that offer mock interviews.
How Mock Interviews Work
Before the Interview
One of the most important things you can do before the interview is to ensure all your technology is in working order. If you’re not sure, you can join a Zoom test meeting to be sure.
Take the time to prepare, just as you would for a video interview for a job. Find a quiet place to do the interivew, and decide what you will wear.
If you have questions about the process or interviewing in general, make a list of them so you don’t forget what you want to learn about.
During the Interview
During a mock interview, the interviewer (the person conducting the mock interview) will ask you a series of questions similar to those you might encounter in a real job interview. The goal is to replicate the interview experience as closely as possible. The experience will be like an actual job interview, with the bonus of expert advice on what you can improve.
Mock interviews give you the opportunity to practice your responses to common interview questions and develop effective interviewing techniques. You can refine your answers, improve your confidence, and learn how to handle challenging questions.
Some mock interviews can be tailored to specific industries or job positions, providing you with relevant practice and insights into the requirements of your target job.
After the Interview
After the interview, the interviewer will provide feedback on your performance. This feedback may cover your responses, body language, communication skills, and overall interview demeanor. They may point out areas where you excelled and need improvement.
Interviewers may offer personalized tips and strategies to help you improve your interview performance. This guidance can be invaluable in addressing your weaknesses and building on your strengths.
How To Line Up a Mock Interview
There are many different ways you can participate in a mock interview, including the following:
College Career Centers: Many colleges and universities have career centers that offer mock interviews to students and alumni. Check with your career services office to see what type of practice interview help is available.
Online Practice Interviews: Online platforms and websites offer mock interview services. These platforms may provide pre-recorded interview questions, virtual interview simulations, or the option to connect with experienced interviewers for feedback.
Career and Interview Coaches: Consider hiring a career coach or interview coach specializing in interview preparation. They can conduct mock interviews and provide tailored guidance.
Friends and Family: You can practice with peers and family. While they may not have professional expertise, they can provide valuable feedback and help you practice.
Examples of Mock Interview Questions
In a mock interview, the questions are typically similar to those you might encounter in a real job interview. The goal is to mirror the interview experience as closely as possible so that you can practice your responses and improve your interviewing skills.
Here are some questions that you may be asked:
- Tell me about yourself.
- Why do you want to work for this company?
- What do you know about the industry/role?
- How has your experience prepared you for this role?
- What makes you the best candidate for the job?
- Why should we hire you?
- How do you prioritize tasks and manage your time?
- What motivates you?
- What are your strengths and weaknesses?
- Describe how you handled a challenging situation you’ve faced at work.
- Tell me about a time when you worked in a team.
- What is your most outstanding professional achievement?
- Why are you leaving your job?
- Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Tip: Review these top 10 interview questions employers ask, with examples of the best answers to get started.
The Bottom Line
Mock interviews can help boost your confidence and reduce anxiety associated with actual interviews. The more you practice, the more comfortable and prepared you will feel when interviewing for real jobs.
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