Mock Interview Preparation: Common Questions with Feedback!

Summary

In this mock interview session, a student receives coaching on how to improve their interview responses and presentation. The interviewer advises the student to focus on telling a compelling story, rather than simply listing their resume, and emphasizes the importance of demonstrating self-awareness and authenticity when discussing weaknesses. The student is encouraged to tie accomplishments to workplace qualities like time management and dedication. Additionally, the importance of preparing thoughtful questions for the interviewer and engaging in a two-way conversation is highlighted. Overall, the session offers valuable insights into how to elevate interview performance from a student level to a professional one.

Takeaways

• 😀 Focus on storytelling: When introducing yourself, avoid simply reading from your resume. Highlight your unique qualities and the reasons behind your experiences.
• 😀 Avoid chronological order: Instead of listing your background step by step, summarize your experiences and explain what makes you a strong candidate for the position.
• 😀 Be authentic about your weaknesses: Choose a weakness that’s real but not too damaging, and show how you manage it effectively.
• 😀 Show growth in your weaknesses: Discuss how you’ve overcome challenges, such as stress management, and highlight steps you take to mitigate the impact on your work.
• 😀 Link accomplishments to transferable skills: When discussing achievements, tie them back to qualities like time management, attention to detail, and commitment.
• 😀 Be specific about what sets you apart: Look for unique combinations of experiences that make you stand out, such as blending creativity with organizational skills.
• 😀 Prepare questions for the interviewer: Always have a few thoughtful questions ready to demonstrate your interest and research about the company.
• 😀 Research the company before the interview: Understand recent developments or news related to the organization to ask insightful questions during the interview.
• 😀 Show that you’re proactive in the interview: Drive the conversation by not only answering questions but also asking relevant questions about the role and company.
• 😀 Approach the interview as a conversation: Interviews are a two-way dialogue where both the candidate and employer assess fit, so engage in a genuine conversation rather than just answering questions.

Q & A

What is the main advice given about introducing yourself in an interview?

The main advice is to avoid simply reading your resume in a chronological order. Instead, focus on crafting a 'pitch' that summarizes who you are as a person and as a candidate, highlighting your strengths, passions, and goals relevant to the position.

What are the three steps for answering the 'What is your greatest weakness?' question?

1) Be honest and authentic. 2) Avoid choosing a weakness that would be a dealbreaker for the role. 3) Explain how you manage or mitigate this weakness, such as by organizing tasks or taking breaks to reduce stress.

How should a candidate present an accomplishment in an interview?

A candidate should not only describe the accomplishment but also explain what it reveals about them as a worker. For example, achieving the Dean's List demonstrates qualities like time management, commitment, and attention to detail, which are valued by employers.

What advice is given to improve the answer to the 'What sets you apart from other candidates?' question?

The candidate should focus on unique combinations of experiences or skills, such as the intersection of event planning and theater. Providing specific examples of how these skills apply in the workplace will also strengthen the answer.

Why is it important to have questions prepared for the interviewer?

Having questions prepared shows genuine interest in the company and the position, and it allows you to learn more about the organization. Questions can also demonstrate that you've done research about the company, which can impress the interviewer.

What type of questions should candidates ask during an interview?

Candidates should ask thoughtful questions that show they've researched the company. For example, asking about a recent development or client acquisition demonstrates that you're engaged and keeping up with the company’s news.

What is the importance of avoiding a chronological account of your experiences during the interview?

Focusing on a chronological list of experiences can make you sound like you're just reading your resume. Instead, presenting your background as a cohesive narrative with a focus on skills, strengths, and passions helps create a more compelling and personal story.

How should a candidate approach discussing their weaknesses in an interview?

A candidate should be honest about their weaknesses but also focus on how they actively work to overcome them. The key is to show self-awareness and a proactive attitude, such as through organizing tasks or taking steps to de-stress when overwhelmed.

Why is it important to tie your accomplishments to specific skills in an interview?

Tying accomplishments to skills demonstrates that you possess the qualities necessary for the role. For example, making the Dean's List shows time management and commitment, which are transferable to the workplace.

What is the overall recommendation for improving interview performance?

The overall recommendation is to transition from a student-level interview style to a more polished, professional approach. This includes engaging in a back-and-forth conversation with the interviewer, showcasing your strengths with concrete examples, and being prepared to assess whether the company is a good fit for you.