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Did you know that the average time spent on Instagram has increased by 3.5% recently? Thanks to Instagram reels, the new generation of netizens are finding new ways of staying connected. Reels have gained immense popularity and have become a top choice among influencers as well. But creating a Reels video isn’t easy because you need to provide engaging content. Additionally, you have to perfect the timing and music.
Everything in life, like Instagram Reels, needs rehearsal and practice. Even when it comes to job interviews, you need a mock interview that’ll help you practice. Read on to explore the meaning of a mock interview, what it entails and its importance.
What Is A Mock Interview?
As the name suggests, a mock interview refers to a training practice that helps you prepare for an actual interview. Typically, a trained professional (like a career counselor) is involved but you can always have a friend help you out. Create a semi-structured interview by looking at formal questionnaire examples.
A mock interview helps you formulate smart answers and identify strengths and weaknesses. Here are some of the other advantages of a mock interview preparation process.
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You get an overview of what you can expect in a real job interview
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You get an opportunity to work on both your verbal (presentation) and non-verbal (body language) skills
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You understand how to highlight relevant details (past experience and skills) more efficiently
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Practicing how to respond helps you feel more confident
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You gain valuable feedback and identify areas of improvement
How To Prepare For A Mock Interview
Although a mock interview is a rehearsal, you need to take it seriously. The more you practice, the more you can improve your interview skills. Here are a few things to be mindful of during your mock interview preparation:
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The Right Sounding Board
One of the most crucial mock interview tips—find the right person who’ll provide feedback. While it’s good to have a family member or friend help you out, it’s best to find someone from the specific industry. Make sure that the interviewer asks career-specific questions that’ll provide you with an accurate performance assessment.
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Dress The Part
Dressing up for the part can put you in a professional mind frame. Not only do you feel more confident, but you also pay attention to your body language. Remember to wear something comfortable so that you can be at ease during the entire interview process. Even if you have a virtual interview, dressing up will help you feel more confident.
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Create The Perfect Setting
Recreate a real interview setting, by sitting across from your (mock) interviewer. Use physical props like desks, chairs, notepads and pens to make it more realistic. This will make you feel less intimidated in an actual interview. If it’s a virtual interview, make sure that your phone and internet connections are stable. Find a room that’s quiet and has good lighting.
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Ask For Feedback
A mock interview is incomplete without feedback. Always remember to gain valuable insights about your personality, your presence and your presentation skills. Greater self-awareness leads to better preparation. If you feel that one interviewer doesn’t do justice, practice with multiple people. Diverse perspectives and multiple interactions will help you prepare for multiple questions an interviewer may throw at you.
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Record Yourself
A great way to work on setbacks during a mock interview is to record and review yourself. Use an actual camera to record the entire session and make notes of areas that need improvement. For example, you were unable to respond to a question or you took too much time formulating your response. Pay attention to other details such as your tone, posture and how easily you could justify your answers.
Master Mock Interviews With Harappa!
Harappa’s Ace The Interview course will help you practice and prepare for real interviews with its list of top frequently asked questions. A stellar faculty line-up will equip you with relevant tips and tricks that will take you through different interview questions, relevant frameworks and important concepts.
The STAR (Situation, Task, Action and Result) Framework will help you engage in in-depth thinking and analysis. Additionally, The PAM (Purpose, Audience and Message) Framework will teach you how to tailor your responses and engage your audience. You’ll learn to build answers on the spot and confidently deal with any curveballs an interviewer may throw at you.
Explore topics such as General HR Interview Questions, What are the Common Questions to Ask an Interviewer, How to Follow-Up After an Interview, Exit Interview Questions and Answers & How to Answer Panel Interview Questions from Harappa Diaries and crack your next interview.
