Published: 14 July 2023
Mock interviews are a valuable component of the internship programme at the University of Sunderland in London. Recognising the challenges and stress associated with job searching and the interview process, the university has taken a proactive approach to help their interns prepare for their future careers.
To begin with, our interns - Christiana, Nazal (marketing interns), and Kasia (HR intern) - were given the task of finding real job descriptions that align with their career interests. They carefully selected roles such as Social Media Coordinator, Digital Marketing Associate, and HR Assistant. These choices were made based on their individual strengths and skills, ensuring a relevant and meaningful experience for each intern.
Once the interns submitted the job descriptions, they embarked on a comprehensive preparation process, treating the mock interviews as if they were real job interviews. This approach allowed them to fully immerse themselves in the mindset of a job seeker, gaining a better understanding of what is expected of them in their desired roles. By going through this process, they were able to grasp the necessary skills and knowledge needed to succeed.
The mock interviews were conducted by Ilona Lewicka – HR Manager and Alan Hardie – Director of the University of Sunderland in London ensuring a comprehensive evaluation from both functional and leadership perspectives. The questions posed to the interns were tailored to their specific job roles, allowing for a targeted assessment of their capabilities, and providing customised feedback.
The main objective of these mock interviews was to offer valuable feedback, tips, and advice to the interns on how to navigate common interview questions successfully. By simulating real interview scenarios, the interns gained hands-on experience and were able to practice their responses under realistic conditions. This practice helped to boost their confidence and refine their communication skills, making them more prepared for future interviews.
Furthermore, the feedback and guidance provided by Ilona and Alan allowed the interns to identify areas for improvement and learn from their mistakes. This personalised feedback was instrumental in helping them effectively articulate their skills, experiences, and motivations. It also provided valuable insights into the expectations of employers in their respective fields, enhancing their overall employability.
The inclusion of mock interviews in the University’s internship programme showcases our commitment to preparing our students for the challenges they may face in the job market. By offering tailored interview experiences, feedback, and guidance, we equip our interns with the skills, knowledge, and confidence they need to thrive in their chosen careers.
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