How to Run a Mock Interview at Home (UK): A Step-by-Step Guide With Friends or Family
Reading about interviews is useful. Practising them out loud is far better. A mock interview shows you where you hesitate, what you forget and which answers land. You do not need a coach. A friend or family member and half an hour are enough.
Choose the right person
Pick someone who will be honest but kind. A former manager or colleague is ideal. A friend who has recently interviewed can help too.
Set it up properly
Choose a quiet space and sit as you would in the real interview.
Give your helper the job advert and a list of questions.
Dress the part for at least part of it. It changes how you feel.
If the real one is on video, do the mock on video.
Questions to include
Start with Tell me about yourself and Why do you want this job. Add two competency questions, such as a time you solved a problem and a time you handled a difficult person. Include one weakness question and one you hope will not come up. End with Do you have any questions for us.
What your helper should notice
Did you answer the question asked?
Did your answers have a clear structure and result?
How was your pace, tone and eye contact?
Any filler words, long pauses or rambling?
Record yourself
Use your phone and watch it back. Most people hate this at first, but it quickly shows what to improve.
Give and take feedback
Ask for three things you did well and two to improve. Then repeat the weakest answers right away.
No helper? Practise alone
Read the questions aloud and answer to your phone camera. Time each answer. Aim for one to two minutes.
Everyone in this situation feels alone at some point, and you are not. If this helped, share it with someone who is job hunting, and tell us in the comments what has worked for you.
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