What Is a Mock Interview? A Complete Guide

When you hear "practice makes perfect," you might think of skills like kickboxing or chess. But interviewing is also a skill that you can practice—with a mock interview. 

What is a mock interview? Below, you'll learn the answer to that question, as well as the benefits of participating in one and how to use it to build your skills, with comments by Olha Madych, Lead Recruiter at EPAM. 

What’s the purpose of a mock interview?

A mock interview is a simulated or practice session resembling a real-life job interview. In this way, people can practice interviewing in a controlled setting before experiencing their real one and potential applicants can increase their odds of being hired. If you've already done it, you'll be more comfortable, avoiding the nerves that come with more uncertain interviews.

A mock interview is to practice responding and preparing adequate answers to potential interview questions. This can make the interview process more comfortable once an applicant is ready for the real thing.

Mock interviews should be a safe space for job seekers. By simulating real scenarios, candidates can practice answering common questions, develop effective communication and interview skills and refine their responses.

Through practice, candidates are better equipped to assess the effectiveness of their responses and make necessary adjustments. They can refine their answers, tailor them to specific job requirements and show their suitability for the role.

Mock interviews provide candidates with valuable feedback on their performance. This feedback can include advice on body language, articulation and overall interview presentation and can help candidates make adjustments before their interviews. 

What are the benefits of mock interviews? 

Mock interviews offer several benefits for job seekers and those interested in advancing their careers:

Benefits for new job seekers

• Mock interviews help job seekers become familiar with the process. They can practice answering common questions, learn how to communicate their qualifications and experiences and understand the expectations of potential employers.
  
• Job seekers can identify weaknesses in their interviewing skills, such as nervousness, lack of eye contact or poor body language through feedback from mock interviewers or career coaches.
  
• For those targeting specific industries or roles, job-specific mock interviews provide tailored practice for specific job requirements.
  

To make the most of a mock interview, job seekers should approach it as if it were a real interview. This includes thorough preparation, researching the company, reviewing the job description and practicing responses to common interview questions.

“Try to be specific and emphasize your professional achievements and strengths. Do not speak for too long and remember the time scheduled for the call.”

Olha Madych, Lead Recruiter, EPAM

Benefits for career growers 
 
Career growers are those who want to increase their salary and/or upgrade their job title in the next stage of their career. Mock interviews keep those seeking career growth in a "promotion-ready" state. Without practice, interview skills can get rusty, so it helps to practice even if you already have interview experience.

Through mock interviews, you might identify opportunities for professional development. For example, if you struggle to answer a question, it's an opportunity to learn something new or bolster your knowledge.

Those seeking career growth will see interview questions related to their leadership skills. Mock interviews for people seeking to grow beyond entry-level positions allow them to practice questions specific to experienced specialists.

If going into a more technically demanding field, you can also have the mock interviewers ask more technical questions. 

“For the introductory interview call, it's sufficient to mention key technologies, months or years of experience and the industries you have worked in. This leaves time to discuss the benefits, processes and other questions that may arise. It's perfectly acceptable for both the candidate and the recruiter to take notes to keep track of key information.” 

Olha Madych, Lead Recruiter, EPAM

Tips for nailing your mock interview

Preparing for a mock interview is the same as a regular interview. Whether you’re a college student seeking an internship or a professional looking to advance your career, here are some practical strategies and techniques to help you nail your interview:

Pay attention to body language
During your mock interview, pay attention to your body language. Maintain good posture, make eye contact and use hand gestures appropriately to convey confidence and engagement. Avoid fidgeting or crossing your arms, as these can show nervousness or disinterest.

Ask relevant questions
Toward the end of the mock interview, ask relevant questions about the company, the role or the hiring process. This shows your genuine interest and engagement in the opportunity. It also means your interviewer needs to know about what questions would be relevant.

“In a recent interview with a candidate, I noticed that the candidate was well-prepared. He knew all the common but important facts and shared feedback from colleagues, which was extremely useful. When discussing his experience, he mentioned the key technologies he works with and provided details on his years of experience, which is also valuable for the extended process.” 

Olha Madych, Lead Recruiter, EPAM

Seek feedback
After completing your mock interview, remember to seek constructive feedback. Ask your mock interviewer for an honest assessment of your performance and areas where you can improve. Use this feedback to refine your interview skills and make any necessary adjustments before your actual interview.

If you are in an active job search, you can browse our career opportunities at www.epam.com/careers.