Mock Interview Reflection

I've had quite a few interviews in my life. Yet each time, there is always at least one question that surprises me or stumps me. Still, the more interviews I go through, the easier each one gets. I have definitely noticed a difference in my confidence level. My first real interview was when I was a senior in high school and I was applying for a scholarship. The Board of Directors of the firm that interviewed me actually knew my grandparents and parents, so the pressure was very high. Back then, I was a timid, nervous, immature girl and it could not have shown more in that interview. Needless to say, I did not get the scholarship. I never wanted to complete an interview like that again, so I prepared much more for every interview thereafter.

However, as much as I prepare, I will never be able to completely anticipate every question, or control the stream of answers that fly out of my mouth. For example, in the mock interview, I know I did not start off well. She opened with one of my least favorite questions, "What makes you the best for this position?" I stumbled all over that answer. I never know what to say to that question that will set me apart from the other applicants. Everyone has almost the same education, work experience, community service, etc. If there is any one thing that I need to work on for future interviews, it is finding a unique answer to that question.

I believe the rest of the interview went well. The other questions were more about my personal experiences, which I could talk all day on. I especially love sharing the experiences that have significantly shaped who I am today, like my internships, studying abroad, and my childhood and family. I was surprised at how easily the answers to these questions flowed and how comfortable I was while interviewing. I am gaining confidence in my abilities and am getting over the nervousness that plagued my first interviews. I only wish I had elaborated on some experiences more, so that the interviewer could really understand me and what I am all about. I have to say that this mock interview was a great experience and helped me see what I need to work on, as well as build up my confidence for future interviews.