The Mock Interview

THE MOCK INTERVIEW.

A good way to prepare for the Mock Interview day is explore your answers to possible interview questions. 

Look closely at the job description. There’ll be many clues in there as to how to prepare.

You should do some simple internet research and see what you can find about the company you’re wanting to join. 

Ask any contacts you have what they know about the culture and the work environment.

The more you do this, the better you’ll do on the day. It’s often helpful to sit with a friend and ask them to role play with you.

TIPS ON HOW TO PREPARE FOR THE INTERVIEW 

1. Think about the questions the interviewer may ask and prepare answers for each one

• Practice providing the concise and clear answer, try to reduce the use of ‘um’ or ‘like’

• Prepare authentic, convincing answers

2. Shortlist the questions you are planning to ask the interviewer/s

3. Be mindful of your posture and presentation in the interview

4. Think about your energy for when you are in the interview. Do you seem enthusiastic and demonstrating that you want the role?

5. Practice exuding confidence  - control of nerves, make eye - contact through the interview. 

Mock Interview Questions

Questions About Experience and Skills 

1. Can you share a bit about your professional journey and what brought you here today?

2. Can you describe your previous work experience and how it relates to this role?

3. What specific skills do you have that make you a good fit for this position?

Questions about Problem Solving and Critical Thinking

4. Tell me about a time when you encountered a significant challenge at work and how you handled it

5. Describe a situation where you had to think outside the box to solve a problem

Questions About Work Style and Teamwork

6. How do you prefer to communicate with your team and your manager?

7. Can you provide an example of how you worked effectively in a team setting?

8. What do you believe is the key to successful teamwork?

Questions About Adaptability and Learning

9. How do you handle changes in priorities or unexpected challenges?

10. Can you describe a time when you had to learn something new to perform your job?

Questions About Motivation and Goals

11. What motivated you to apply for this position?

12. What professional accomplishment are you most proud of?

13. I can see there is a gap in your resume, could you tell me more about that?

Questions About Cultural Fit and Values

14. What type of work environment do you thrive in?

15. How do you handle feedback, both positive and constructive?

16. What do you know about our company culture, and why do you think you'd be a good fit?

17. Have you got any questions you'd like to ask?

Resources:

'Tell Me About Yourself' 

Two Questions To Ask In An Interview 

Linked In Learning - Job Seeking with a Criminal Record

Explaining Gaps in Your Resume

Some tips from previous groups to help you prepare...

• Bring your personality into it, not just your skills!

• Use the buzz words

• Your past experiences are important, valuable and useful...weave them into your answers

• Take a moment to pause and answer the question, remember to breath

• Be prepared!