Mock Interview Program 

A Mock Interview is one of the very best ways to prepare for an actual employment interview.  The Mock Interview will help you to learn what is expected in a real interview, and how you can improve the way you present yourself.  The interview is video recorded and then reviewed with you and a trained Mock Interview Coach.   The Mock Interview Coach will provide constructive feedback on all aspects of the interview process.

The Mock Interview Coach will try to make the interview as realistic as possible.  Many of the questions you will be asked are interview questions from actual employers. The Mock Interview takes about 20 minutes; then you will watch and discuss your performance.  The Mock Interview and critique will last approximately one hour.

The Mock Interview focuses on how well you know yourself and your past experiences, how well you know the industry you hope to enter, and how well you can convey that information.  You will gain the most experience from your Mock Interview, if you treat it like an actual interview.  The Mock Interview is a safe place to practice your interview skills and gain feedback.

The Mock Interview Program is designed to help you:

• Practice interviewing
• Develop interviewing strategies
• Reduce your anxiety and nervousness before your actual interview
• Create a good first impression
• Communicate your skills clearly
• How to answer difficult questions

How do I prepare?

• Dress professionally
• Plan to arrive 10-15 minutes early
• Review appropriate material, (skills, type of work, particular employers)
• Be prepared for situational questions like, “Tell me about a time that you had a serious disagreement with someone on your work team, how did you handle the situation?”
• Remember to smile

Your 30- to 60-second personal commercial: A sure-fire secret
In most job interviews, or even at a career fair, a question employers always ask is, “Could you tell me about yourself?”  This question can throw you off if you are not prepared.  Fortunately, there is a simple and almost fool-proof method to handle this challenge: a 30 to 60 second commercial about your self.  It is a snapshot of you and the qualities you would bring to the job.  It should contain some basic components, such as:

T =	Type of job you are seeking
E =	Education and training
E =	Experience (includes transferable skills, not just job titles, but experience in the field)
S =	Strengths and skills.  One to two skills you are strong in regarding the job you are seeking.
ME =	Why should you hire me?  (Keep this short and to the point)

Things to remember:

• Tone of voice
• Demeanor
• Eye contact
• Knowledge of the company (this will also strengthen your statement of why you should be hired)
• Practice  (in the mirror, on video, or with another person)

If necessary, memorize your commercial then, when you meet the employer at a career fair or in an interview situation, you will feel prepared.  Being prepared is the secret to self-confidence in an interview.

To schedule an appointment for a Mock Interview please call Employment and Career Services at (440) 366-4076.