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​Preparing for a Mock Interview

 

Overview

The mock interview is designed to increase students’ understanding and confidence in preparing for the real interview. The interview environment is simulated by a Career Advisor asking the student a set of questions for which feedback is provided followed by an opportunity for the interviewee to ask questions. 
 

Preparing for a Mock Interview

1. Review the popular interview questions listed below.

2. Review these helpful tips for answering questions.
Think about answering questions using this process:  

    • ​Identify your skills, talents, knowledge
    • Describe an experience to illustrate or reinforce the above
    • Connect each experience to the position/organization 

 ​​Another way to answer questions is to use the following process to tell your story: 

  • ​Introduce the situation or scenario of the story to the employer
  • Provide specific examples of what you did in the  story to lead to the final result; be sure to highlight your specific actions
  • Be sure to end the story by explaining what resulted from your efforts or what the outcome was
  • Be prepared to ask the interviewer questions. Research on the company/position can provide insight to possible questions.

​​3. Dress professionally.  This is a good opportunity for the interviewee to practice interviewing in formal attire.

4. Bring both a job description and a current resume (optional; but helpful for the  interviewer). These items can be supplied when the appointment is initially made to help the interviewer better simulate the specific interview experience. 

5. Arrive at the office a few minutes early to allow time to check in before the appointment. 

Popular Interview Questions  

Review examples of popular interview questions by categories to begin drafting some responses in preparation for your mock interview appointment. 

Prepare Examples

Brainstorm and identify examples from your past based on the various sample questions you could face during an interview.  Summarize these stories into a chart, such as the one listed below, or using a more narrative format.

Adaptability ​ List an example from your past for each of these main areas, adding more as you prepare for the interview ​
Analysis skills ​
Communication ​ ​
Initiative
​Interpersonal skills ​ ​ ​
Leadership ​
People skills/relationships ​
Problem-solving ​​ ​
Time of failure ​
​ ​
 

Mock Interview Evaluation 

The following items are important during the interview process.  The peer interviewer will provide feedback on:

  1. ​​Introduction 
    Firm handshake 
    Smile
  2. Presence 
    Posture 
    Projected warmth/enthusiasm 
    Avoided annoying mannerisms 
  3. Communication
    Voice tone and volume  
    Proper use of diction 
    Attentive listening 
    Eye contact
  4. Interaction
    Answered questions directly 
    Provided specific examples 
    Asked questions when appropriate 
    Demonstrated interest in position
  5. Closing 
    Asked the interviewer thoughtful questions 
    Avoided questions on salary and benefits 
    Thanked the interviewer for his/her time 
    Inquired about the hiring timeline/process 
    Finished with a firm handshake and smile
  6. Specific comments/suggestions on questions and answers during the interview 

Adopted from University of West Washington-Career Services Center http://www.careers.wwu.edu/resources/mockinterview.pdf

Questions? Contact Career Development Services at careers@lssc.edu or 352-323-3603.