Mock Interviews Feedback and Comments

1
Mock InterviewsFeedback and Comments

• Myrna Rudder
• Susan Rowe
• Allen Rioux
• Dan Solarek

2
Punctuality

• The majority of students were on time or early
  for the interviews.
• One or two students missed the interviews and
  provided no notice.

3
Dress and Grooming

• Generally good
• Small number of students not properly dressed
  (especially coats for men)
• One or two students didnt remove piercings
• One or two needed to do a better job with their
  hair (cut, comb)
• Pay attention to small details
• e.g., stop by a mirror, shine your shoes

4
Cover Letter, Resume References

• Most resumes were well done
• One or two notable exceptions to this statement
• Many students did not have all three documents
  (resume, references)
• Interviewers had to ask for resumes
• Not all interviewers asked, but you should offer

5
Preparation Research

• Some did not ask questions about the company
• Come prepared with a list
• Shows interest in the position
• A small number did not know anything about the
  company

6
Communications

• Most did a good job
• Eye contact, conversational tone, smile
• Very few vocal pauses
• Most exhibited confidence
• A few had some difficulty with body language and
  gestures
• Bring a portfolio for your notes
• Sit up straight, maintain good posture

7
Questions Answers

• A wide range of results
• Some very good, others poor
• Many students did not ask questions when offered
  the opportunity
• Be prepared to ask at least three questions
• About the job, company, follow up, etc.
• When given, many answers were short
• Look for an opportunity to tell your story
• Tell stories that illustrate your values

8
Overall Impression

• Generally positive
• Usual variability among interviewees
• Some nervousness due to lack of experience
• Some did not seem sufficiently confident
• Sheepish about answers
• Couldnt tell anything outstanding or wonderful
  about themselves

9
Other Observations

• Need better preparation
• 3-4 scenarios for telling your story
• Questions for interviewer (write them down)
• Focus on value issues when talking about yourself
• Character, work ethic, professional ethics
• Response to weakness question was poor in some
  cases

10
Final Observations

• Only a few interviewees asked for a business card
  to facilitate follow up purposes
• Ask at the beginning of the interview
• Most thanked the interviewer for their time and
  the opportunity to interview
• Noone sent a thank you letter or email message

11
One Minute Assignment

• Answer the following two questions
• With which aspect of your mock interview were you
  least satisfied?
• What will you do to make your next interview
  experience better?