Interviewing is a learned skill
As with every skill you’ve ever learned, you have to learn the technique and then practice, practice, practice. A mock interview will not only help you practice your technique, but will allow you to get valuable feedback and coaching on your performance.
Sue is an accomplished tennis player, and has worked on her stroke and technique for many years. She has taken lessons from pros, and listened to their advice when they gave her their critique.
She is now graduating from college and has signed up for some on-campus interviews with recruiters over the next month. She feels confident that she knows her subject and is a pretty good talker, but decides some advice from a professional would be a good idea.
She signs up for a mock interview with the campus career center, and is given a tip sheet to read before the scheduled interview.
What is a Mock Interview?
- A 30 minute video taped session of you in an interview with a professional.
- A review of the tape, and constructive feedback on your performance.
Preparation
- Prepare for the session by researching the company/industry of interest to you.
- Investigate and identify the most common industry traits sought.
(analytical skills, communication skills, business knowledge, problem solving) - Script answers to demonstrate your experience with these factors
(answers to behavioral questions – “Tell me about a time when…” “Can you give me an example of a time…”.
The Session
- Dress in appropriate attire – as though this were an actual company interview.
- Greet the interviewer with an enthusiastic handshake and smile.
- Listen to the question asked – make sure you know what the interviewer wants to know. Ask questions if the question is not clear.
- Keep your answers concise and to the point – “What can you do for this company?” – 2 to 3 minutes long.
- Make sure you are selling the product – you!
- Have questions prepared to ask the interviewer.
