“Nervous butterflies”
We all know that feeling right before an interview — nervous butterflies, not being able to sit still, racing heart — and that’s only for an ‘normal’ interview. The pandemic has meant we also need to worry about the strength of our WiFi, whether your house mates remember to be quiet, not being face-to-face with the interviewers. By choosing to do a mock interview and assessment centre unit I was able to gain valuable experience and feedback which I could reflect upon and put into practice in the real thing.
The Interview…
To get any job, you will eventually have to sit down and be interviewed. This can be daunting, but with thorough preparation and research of the company and role it’s possible to predict what questions will be asked, allowing you to think of well formulated answers in advance. As well as a better performance this will also help ease anxiety. There are many great resources which I took advantage of before completing the mock interview.
For example… https://www.careers.manchester.ac.uk/applicationsinterviews/interviews
As well as preparing answers for predictable questions, and in order to structure my time sensibly I thought about my strengths and weaknesses. The area I felt like I should spend the most time trying to develop was how I articulate myself, as I am aware of my personal tendency mumble, lose my train of thought, and repeat myself. To do this I practiced talking in a clear voice, ending a ‘point’ in a concise way, and by recording myself to simulate the real thing. On receiving my feedback, I was happy to see that my research of the company was recognised, and that my practice mostly paid off — whilst I could not help losing my train of thought I was commended for recovering quickly.
…I highly recommend interviewing yourself and recording it
The Assessment Centre…
A popular method in the final selection process by employers, which aims to test how a candidate interacts with others in different situations. By preparing a ‘Do’s and Don’ts’ checklist in advance and finding insightful online resources I had an understanding what could be expected which made me feel less anxious and more confident on the day.
For example… www.prospects.ac.uk/careers-advice/interview-tips/assessment-centres
During preparation I also reflected upon my strengths and weaknesses — whilst I feel confident in my ability to effectively build rapport, which I’ve developed through my volunteering roles and job, I was worried I may not be as good doing this over zoom. I also considered how I can sometimes feel shy which would reflect poorly on leadership and teamwork.
Surprisingly, the feedback I received showed that I did not need to worry as I scored well in all of these areas and in future, I should consider them my strengths. Instead, moving forward I should try and develop my organisation skills in a group discussion and be mindful of remaining a proactive presence rather than focusing on notes.
“I should consider them my strengths…”
