What Is A Practice Interview?

Practice interviews are one of the best ways to prepare for an interview. “Mock” or practice interviews with a career coach offer a safe space to identify and address weaknesses, improving responses, and overall presentation. This practice builds your confidence, leading to more effective self-presentation during real interviews. Coaches also can help you craft compelling narratives highlighting your relevant skills and accomplishments. Finally, these practice sessions can help you improve your non-verbal communication for a polished and confident impression.

At the Career Center, you can conduct a practice interview with a career coach who will ask you a sample of questions you are likely to receive from a company or organization with which you want to interview. At the end of the practice interview, the coach will review your responses with you and give you actionable strategies to improve your interview performance.

How Do I Set Up A Practice Interview?

You can schedule a practice interview appointment with a career coach on Handshake. We are not able to accommodate same day requests for practice interviews. The following information will need to be submitted by email least 24 hours in advance of your scheduled appointment to the career coach with whom you have scheduled the practice interview:

  • details about the position/program to which you are applying
  • an overview of the organization
  • your résumé/cover letter

If you do not have a particular position or program in mind, please submit information for a “hypothetical” situation of interest to you.

What Do I Get Out Of It?

  • Preparation for likely questions
  • Confidence
  • Stronger interviewing skills to increase your chance of getting a job

Common Job Interview Questions and Best Answers (20 Examples)