A mock interview is a training exercise which simulates the interaction between a hiring manager and yourself. Many people use the terms mock interview and interview practice interchangeably. Completing a mock job interview as part of your interview preparation enables you to practice and refine your interview skills without the pressure of interviewing for a role which you really want. A practice job interview can help you to feel more comfortable about the type of questions you are likely to be asked, practice your answers to tough questions, enhance your communication skills and build your confidence.
What are the benefits of a mock interview?
The best way to improve your interview skills (like any other skill) is through practice. A mock interview resembles an interview as closely as possible. Mock job interviews can be tailored to any type of interview with job interview questions written from a job description of your choice, exactly the same as a typical interview.
Mock interviews enable you to practice answering the types of questions you are likely to be asked in your next interview and gain feedback on your communication skills, body language and overall presentation. Practice interviews can help to reduce anxiety by helping you to feel more prepared, and familiar with the types of questions you are likely to be asked. If you have any particular interview questions which you are likely to struggle answering, then a mock interview enables you to practice answering these and builds your confidence. A mock interview also provides an opportunity to practice using video interviewing tools such as Zoom.
A practice interview with an interview coach, HR professional or someone who interviews regularly as part of their role can provide you with invaluable feedback which you can use to improve your interview skills, as well as improving your confidence. Whilst it is possible for anyone to conduct a mock interview, if you are hoping for in-depth feedback, it is best if the mock interview is conducted with someone who regularly interviews candidates so they can ensure your answers are clear, concise, and effectively communicate your value to employers.
Mock interviews and interview coaching
I offer mock interviews as a single 60-minute session, with questions written specifically for a role of your choice. Questions can be written in any style whether you are preparing for a competency based interview, behavioural interview or technical interview. Mock interviews include honest, constructive verbal and written feedback covering your strengths and development areas to help you understand how recruiters rate your current performance.
Mock interviews can also be combined with interview coaching, so I can teach you techniques to improve your development areas, provide you with guidance and support to refine your interview skills and build your confidence. I can also provide you with a clear plan of the steps needed to improve your interview skills. Interview coaching is one of the most efficient ways to improve your interview skills, as every session is tailored to help you to improve your development areas.
Would you like to improve your interview skills and confidence? I provide interview skills help via mock interviews and interview coaching sessions, personally tailored to your needs. Please contact me, and I’ll be pleased to discuss your requirements and how I can plan a session or sessions to help you, whether you prefer a single mock interview session or to combine this with interview coaching.
