2. Why do a Mock Interview?
This activity aims to learn more about mock interviewing and how to prepare.
Discuss
There is a saying that practice makes perfect. But it’s more that practice makes something easier. Practicing your interview skills is a great way to build confidence and reduce the nervous feelings you might have. A mock interview is a way to practice interviewing by pretending like it is a real interview. Even though there’s no job at the end, you still want to prepare, research, and dress as you would for a real interview.
Watch
Select a video based on students’ level of experience with interviews. The first option is helpful for those just learning about interviewing and mock interviewing.
Option 1: Job Search Tips: How to Mock Interview (3:44) – this video explains a mock interview and how to prepare.
[Note to Instructors: Video content ends around 1:38 and shows bloopers for the remainder. It may be helpful for students to see how even these individuals needed to practice recording the video and mistakes are ok because it helped them make improvements.]
Option 2: How to Ace an Entry Level Interview (6:55) – this video explains how to handle an entry level interview when you don’t have a lot of experience. This video will provide you with helpful tips and tricks, as well as things to think about before you jump into an interview.
Reflect
Knowing how to prepare for a mock interview or interview is important to do before going into an actual one. Consider these questions after watching one of the videos to help you think about what you would need to do to prepare.
- What strategies stand out to you?
- Which tips do you think will be most helpful for your interview?
- How can you answer questions if you don’t have a lot of work experience?
- Sometimes It can be hard to make eye contact or sit still. What strategies do you use or can you use that will help you?
[Note to Instructors: Strategies can include: looking near someone’s eyes, like their forehead or space between their eyes; using a fidget if it’s difficult to be still, or planning movement breaks.]