What Could Go Wrong with a Practice Interview?

Acing a job interview requires proper preparation and practice, often with the help of a friend or colleague. While practice interviews can be extremely beneficial, they are not without their potential pitfalls. 

Let’s look at what could go wrong with a practice interview and how to address these issues effectively. 

Blurring the boundaries

Practicing with someone you know well may seem like a comfortable choice, but it could actually hinder your preparation. Over-familiarity can lead to casual conversation, making it difficult to simulate the formal atmosphere of a real interview. To avoid this, establish clear boundaries and expectations with your practice partner. Request that they treat you as if you were a stranger and maintain professionalism throughout the session.

Lost in translation

Misunderstandings are common during practice interviews, especially if you and your partner have different communication styles. These miscommunications can result in incorrect feedback, leaving you feeling confused and unprepared. To minimize misunderstandings, clarify your expectations beforehand and ask your partner to be explicit in their feedback. Additionally, don’t hesitate to ask questions if something is unclear.

Winging it

Lack of proper research and understanding of the job requirements can affect the efficacy of your practice session. Your practice partner may not be familiar with the specific skills and qualifications required for your target position, leaving you ill-equipped to answer questions confidently. To overcome this, provide your partner with relevant information about the role and company, as well as a list of potential questions to ask during the practice session.

Flawed critique

Feedback is crucial for improving your interview skills, but if your partner is biased or lacks experience in providing constructive criticism, their feedback may be unhelpful. To avoid this, consider practicing with multiple people, including professionals or individuals experienced in the hiring process. This will allow you to receive diverse perspectives, helping you identify areas for improvement more effectively.

False sense of security

When practicing with someone you know, it’s easy to underestimate the challenges of a real interview. This overconfidence can leave you unprepared for unexpected questions or situations. To combat this, try practicing with someone outside your immediate circle, such as a career coach or a mentor. They can provide a more objective view of your performance and help you to prepare for a wider range of scenarios.

Attention deficit

Personal issues or unrelated topics can easily sidetrack your practice session, reducing its effectiveness. To keep the focus on the interview, set aside a dedicated time and space for practice, free from distractions. Communicate with your partner about the importance of staying on topic and maintaining a professional atmosphere throughout the session.

Divergent views

Differing opinions on the best way to respond to interview questions can cause conflict between you and your practice partner. This tension can harm your confidence and reduce the overall effectiveness of your practice. To prevent this, discuss your preferred approach with your partner beforehand and be open to constructive criticism. Remember that your ultimate goal is to improve your interview skills, and healthy debate can often lead to better understanding.

Practice interviews can be invaluable in preparing for a job interview. However, it’s essential to be aware of potential pitfalls and take steps to avoid them. By establishing clear boundaries, communicating effectively, and seeking feedback from diverse sources, you can ensure your practice sessions are as productive and beneficial as possible.

***

This blog is shared with Job Seeker Duetists. 

Written by former recruitment ghostwriter Paul Drury (not AI).