Five reasons everybody should do a mock interview

Interviews can feel like a high-stakes performance. For many, the pressure to say the right thing, be confident, and make a lasting impression can be overwhelming. That’s where practice in the form of a mock interview comes in. They’re essentially a dress rehearsal that prepares you for the real thing. Whether you're gearing up for your first internship, fellowship, a college admissions interview or a dream job opportunity, preparing with a mock interview is a great way to ease those nerves and boost your confidence,

Setting up a mock interview is easier than you might think. Many university career centers and alumni offices offer mock interview sessions, either online or in person. You can also find resources online or through platforms like LinkedIn Learning that provide guidance for practice interviews. If you prefer, you can work with a mentor or peer who’s willing to give you honest feedback, or you can even conduct a solo session. For solo practice, prepare a list of questions, record yourself (video and audio are ideal), and commit to reviewing your performance critically.

The key is in the practice itself. Repetition helps you refine your responses and identify areas for improvement. Pay attention to details: filler words such as “um” and “like,” moments where you sound unsure or instances where you stumble on an answer. Practicing out loud will help you sound more polished, confident and prepared when it’s time for the real interview. With every mock session, you’ll get closer to mastering your interview skills and making a strong impression.

 Here are five reasons why everyone should do a mock interview:

1. Builds confidence

Mock interviews are a safe place to test your answers and practice interview etiquette. For STEM students, this practice is especially valuable, as it helps you refine responses to technical or behavioral questions and practice explaining complex ideas clearly. By rehearsing in advance, you'll feel more at ease and walk into the real interview with confidence instead of anxiety.

2. Provides personalized feedback

One of the biggest benefits of a mock interview is the constructive feedback you’ll receive afterward. A skilled mock interviewer, whether it's a career counselor, mentor or trusted colleague, will highlight both your strengths and areas to improve. They can give you pointers on everything from how clearly you answer questions to how often you hesitate, for example. You could also ask the one conducting the mock interview to offer insight into your body language, eye contact and overall demeanor—key elements that contribute to making a strong first impression. This personalized feedback gives you actionable steps to refine your performance and ensures you’re better prepared for the real interview.

3. Teaches you how to sharpen your answers

Mock interviews give you the chance to practice how you respond to common questions like “What is your greatest strength?” or “Why do want to work here?” as well as any uncommon questions asked by the mock interviewer. You’ll learn how to organize your thoughts, stay on message and communicate clearly. With repetition and feedback, you’ll become better at telling your story in a meaningful way.

4. Teaches you how to ask great questions

Interviews aren’t just about answering questions, they are also your chance to show genuine curiosity about the company or institution. A mock interview is the perfect setting to practice crafting and delivering thoughtful, informed questions that you want to ask your real interviewer. Use the session to test how your questions sound, refine their phrasing, and assess whether they leave a strong impression. Asking well-prepared questions not only shows your interest but also helps you stand out as a proactive and engaged candidate.

5. Reduces stress on the big day

A mock interview creates a low-pressure environment where mistakes aren’t just acceptable—they’re valuable learning opportunities that you can address and improve upon. By simulating a real interview setting, you’ll become more comfortable with the format and reduce the chance of being caught off guard. Practice will help you feel more prepared, grounded and confident when it’s time for the actual interview. On the big day, you can focus on showcasing your skills and making a strong impression without the added stress.

Mock interviews are a must-do in the interview preparation process. They help refine your approach, sharpen your skills, and calm your nerves—so when it’s time for the interview you’re not just ready, you’re confident. Treat a mock interview like it’s the real thing, and it just might help you land the real job or opportunity.

References:

• Coursera Staff. (2025, May 2). How mock interviews can help you succeed. Coursera.
• Indeed Editorial Team. (2025, March 3). What Is a Mock Interview? Indeed.
• MasterClass. (2022, November 9). Mock interview: 3 benefits of a mock interview.