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Interviews can be stressful experiences, especially for first-time interviewees. The pressure of impressing an interviewer and showcasing your qualifications can leave even the most confident candidates feeling nervous and anxious. However, participating in mock interviews can help ease anxiety and prepare you for your future internship, college admissions, and job interviews.
Tips for First-time Interviewees:
- Preparing for the “Tell me about yourself” question – One of the most common questions asked during an interview is “tell me about yourself.” This question may seem simple, but it can be challenging to answer in a concise and compelling way. To prepare for this question, spend some time reflecting on your personal and professional experiences and identify a few key themes or accomplishments that you’d like to highlight. This will help you answer the question in a structured and thoughtful way and provide the interviewer with a clear understanding of your strengths and qualifications. It is also important to introduce yourself with your name, so the interviewer remembers you. Lastly, avoid assuming the interviewer knows specific acronyms or programs you may be familiar with.
- The Importance of Body Language – Body language plays a significant role in the interview process. Candidates may be nervous or anxious, leading to fidgeting or avoiding eye contact. To combat this, you should practice public speaking to better prepare yourself for nerves and anxiety. Being well-prepared can also help you feel more confident in the interview setting. Remember to sit up straight, as this shows that you are taking the opportunity seriously.
- Providing Specific and Concrete Examples – Answering interview questions with detail, specificity, and concrete examples is crucial for demonstrating your qualifications and suitability for a position or program. This approach allows the interviewer to gain a more comprehensive understanding of your abilities and potential fit. Without providing detail and specificity, answers may appear vague or generic and may even seem unauthentic.
Interviews are nerve-wracking experiences that can be challenging to navigate. Take the time to reflect on your experiences, practice your public speaking skills, and rehearse specific and concrete examples in your answers so that you can showcase your strengths and qualifications to potential employers, internship coordinators, or admissions officers. Remember that preparation is key, and with enough practice and confidence, you can ace your next interview.
Hoping to participate in a mock interview to get some extra practice? Send our article “How Conducting Mock Interviews Can Prepare High School Students for the Future” to your NTHS Advisor and ask how you can help them coordinate a mock interview event.
