How to Prepare for a Mock Interview?

What is a Mock Interview?

A mock interview, also called a practice interview, is an imitation of a real interview. It allows job seekers to practice their responses and receive feedback on where they can improve. After all, practice makes perfect.

What are the Benefits of a Mock Interview?

Gives Practice

Nothing good ever comes from being unprepared. So, if you can recreate a scenario that can help you map out your answers, it’s wise to do it! One of the best things about mock interviews is they allow you to familiarize yourself with the process, practice eye contact and the right body language, and run through your answers like a mini script.

Mock interviews also allow you to:

• Reduce stress and anxiety
• Boost your confidence
• Learn new techniques
• Help your body language

Feedback

Feedback allows you to make revisions and lets you know what you are already great at. As long as the feedback is constructive, it will be beneficial to you in the long run.

How to Prepare for a Mock Interview

Dress Appropriately

First, you need to look the part. If you were going for a lawyer position, you want to wear your best sharp suit, as opposed to jeans and a sweater. It’s important that your attire matches the role. This also helps when your potential employer sees you for the first time. It takes just 7 seconds for someone to form a first impression on you — so you need to make it count. And this goes for the real interview, too.

Choose a Nice Area

Choosing a nice and professional area can help you feel accustomed to that type of environment on the big day. There is a massive difference between meeting in a dingy cafe and meeting in an open workspace in the center of the city.

Be Early

Arriving 10-15 minutes early helps you to destress and collect your thoughts. It will also show the interviewer that you are responsible and have good time-keeping skills. Arriving too early isn’t the worst thing in the world; it might even allow you to cram in some extra preparation. Either way, ensure you aim for a reasonable time.

Choose the Right Interviewer

Choosing an interviewer to help you prepare can be an easy pick if you just choose anyone. But you want to select someone who would take the job seriously. Consider asking family or friends if that is what you are more comfortable with. Or you can find a professional that allows mock interviews for the best feedback possible.

Research the Company

Researching the company lets the interviewer know you did your homework. When in an interview, managers want to know if you have the right skills and qualifications for the job. Doing research on the company allows you to understand the company and its culture, shows your excitement, and helps you to prepare for questions.

Prepare Questions

Preparation will be your first line of defense against tricky questions. You can’t predict everything the employer will ask you, but it helps to have some of the common ones in mind and craft an efficient response.

Record

Recording the interview will allow you to pinpoint where you need improvement. You will also be able to hear your intonations, assess your body language and see just how confident (or nervous) you come across.

Common Interview Questions

“Tell me about Yourself”

This is one of the most common questions an interviewer can ask you and usually comes up at the beginning. It’s designed for the employer to evaluate your potential for the company.

“Where do You See Yourself in 5 years?”

Interviewers don’t expect you to know exactly where you will be so soon. This question allows them to get an insight into your future goals and whether they align with the potential role.

“Why should we Hire You?”

Employers want to know why you believe you are the best candidate for the position. Asking this question helps the employer know what separates you from the other candidates.