Before you go for an interview, prepare in advance, write down the most common questions that are asked in an interview. You can also make up a list of questions according to various companies and positions, so that it may be helpful while applying for jobs or internship programs. This will additionally help you prepare for all types of interviews. It will also help you to frame better responses
How long should mock interviews be?
It is recommended to keep the mock interview sessions between 15-20 minutes. This will help you practice for a shorter duration and also be better prepared. If you have time, then go ahead with long mock interview sessions as well.Mock interviews should ideally take place in a room where there are no distractions. You will need complete focus on the interviewer while answering questions so it would be good if you avoid being around other people during these sessions. The best option would be to conduct individual mock interviews since two people can become rather distracting when trying to concentrate.
How many questions should you prepare?
Prepare at least 5-6 questions from different categories for each of your friends who will be interviewing you. It is important to ask the right questions. If you feel that there are too many questions for you to handle, then do not go beyond 3-4 categories. It is better to be well prepared than over-prepared.Questions should come from different categories like the personal, professional, and behavioral types of questions so that you may get enough practice while preparing for an interview.
Take up mock interviews one by one
Look at the list of common questions asked in interviews and divide them among your friends so they can play the role of the interviewer while you act as the interviewee. This will help determine where your strong points lie and also provide the opportunity to work on your weak areas or develop new skills if required. You can point out certain things that you need assistance with before the interview begins.You can also ask your friends to help you practice for common behavioral or case interviews after completing mock interviewing sessions. This will provide you with better feedback about your performance in an interview.
When should you conduct the mock interview?
It is advisable to conduct mock interviews at least 1-2 days before your actual interview so that you get enough time to prepare and review your performance in the previous session. You can go ahead with more than one mock session if required, but this depends on how much time is left before your actual interview date arrives.What kind of questions should you expect during your mock interview conversation?The most probable questions that would be asked during the interview are:
∎ Tell me about yourself
∎ Why do you want to work for this company?
∎ What are your greatest strengths and weaknesses?
∎ How well did you perform in college/university?
∎ How much salary do you expect from us? [It is okay to mention a range]