Practice interviews will provide students with the professional feedback they need and will also serve as an opportunity for students to gain interview skills, self-confidence and the chance to network with professionals.
To participate in a mock interview, you must first book an Interview Prep appointment. At the end of the appointment, you can ask for a list of mock interviewers, including their positions and contact information. Then follow the process outlined below.
Mock Interview Process
- Book and attend a résumé critique appointment with Careerspace.
- Review the Interviews Tip Sheet.
- Find a job ad similar to the type of work you would be looking for; if you cannot find something suitable, create your own.
- Prepare your résumé as if you would be sending it in application for that job.
- Contact one of the interviewers from the list you received to set up the mock interview; if you are unsure how to approach them, book an appointment with Careerspace to discuss or practice your "spiel".
- Set up a date and time for the mock interview that is convenient for both of you; usually the interview will be conducted at the interviewer's workplace or virtually. Email Careerspace at careers@trentu.ca to let us know that you have scheduled a mock interview.
- At least three business days before your interview, send the interviewer the job ad and your résumé.
- The interviewer will give you verbal feedback after the interview and s/he will complete a feedback form to give to you.
- You will also receive an email from Careerspace with a link to an online evaluation regarding our Mock Interview Program; we value your comments about the Program, so we hope you will take a few minutes to complete it.
Remember
- There may not be an interviewer from the field you are interested in but these are all professionals who have experience in conducting interviews, so their feedback is valuable.
- Even though this is a mock interview, you have to show professionalism from the moment you make contact with the interviewer.
- Don’t forget to reflect on the whole experience, noting what went well during the mock interview and what you feel you need to work on.
- At the mock interview, treat it like it is a real interview
For more info, contact careers@trentu.ca.
Remember, you can also book a practice interview with the Career Resource Advisor in Careerspace. Peterborough students, book your appointment through the online booking system. Sign in to the Student Experience Portal. Click on “Peterborough Campus Appointment Bookings” in the left menu, then choose "Careerspace" from the drop-down list. Pick the Appointment Type and the date and time that works best for you.