BE A S.T.A.R 🌟

It’s safe to say that most people get clammy in the palms when they discover they have to do a job interview, but the best way to ace them is to practise and prepare! That is why we have mock interviews. They assist in analysing how to answer difficult questions, developing interview strategies, improving communication skills, and reducing stress prior to attending an actual job interview.

I see interviews as a challenge, something that could change the course of my future, and it’s up to me and only me to get through it; confidence, I believe, is essential. It all comes down to how you present yourself. Pacing, eye contact, posture, facial expressions… There is nothing between you and the employer in a face-to-face interview, which is how someone can see straight through you. Scary, isn’t it?

Doubt kills more dreams than failure ever will

Interview Day

It was a 7 a.m. start for me. I put on my regular clothes, a pair of jeans and a hoodie, and that was my first mistake. Why didn’t I dress more appropriately for an interview, whether it be real or not? But I’d made my decision and went with it. Walking to the interview I was giving myself time to relax by listening to some of my favourite songs. Music and fresh air helped to relieve my anxiety, but as soon as I walked through the door, I could feel my heart beating through my chest! It was time for my interview.

I had prepared beforehand with answers to basic questions in hopes I could relate it to whatever was asked of me, some of which helped. My interview started with the easy-going ‘tell me about yourself’ question. A good one to start with to ease myself in and break the ice! ‘Where do you see yourself in 5 years?’ was another question I was confident about as I was able to show the interviewers that I had a focused career path. But things got a little more difficult as some of the next questions asked were very similar, I answered them in the same way and was repeating myself, I could feel myself freezing! BUT, that’s why I’m glad it was a mock interview as this is something I can now work on for the future!

Feedback received:

I received helpful feedback regarding the interview’s content as I understood the questions.

During my “give an example” responses, I addressed STAR points that I linked to particular modules from my degree. The STAR model provided me with a framework for how to respond to questions that asked for examples, which was a huge help in preparing for my interview. Another comment on my feedback form stated that I provided an acceptable level of detail, this seemed quite vague so I will have to go into greater detail in my responses when I have a real interview. Perhaps giving the interviewer more specifics about what I actually do in my degree or in my professional experience might stick out.

Regarding my reflection in the stimulating interview, I was able to list a variety of my own skills as well as discuss skills I’m eager to develop. I was able to connect my studies and work experience to the master’s programme I was applying for. I was asked if I had any prior experience in journalism during my interview, and I was able to respond by discussing my time spent working for The Newsletter and my present position at a radio station, which helped me better understand the career path I want to follow. I received a score of 5 out of 5.

In terms of presentation skills, I have some areas to improve on. Working at a radio station has definitely helped improve my speaking voice as I’ve been training myself to be better spoken and clearer, and this proved true as the comments given to me were that I was well spoken and answered questions clearly. I also made good eye contact, but I need to make sure I keep it with both interviewers, not just the one asking the question! As previously stated, the one thing that let me down was giving similar answers to certain questions; I need to be prepared to give different examples and be more articulate with the words I use. Overall, I scored 4 out of 5, which is great but there’s room for improvement.

Conclusion

I know for future interviews my anxiety will always be there, that’s not going to go away! But my mock interview has taught me which areas I should prioritise over others. The interviewers could tell I was career-focused and knew what I wanted showing that I was enthusiastic when discussing my goals for my life, hearing this boosted my confidence in my communication skills as I was able to project my passion onto others. I came prepared in terms of knowledge about the field I want to enter, and this is what employers look for in a candidate; it demonstrates that research and steps have been taken to get to where I want to be. I do, however, need to work on specific wording of some responses, so they don’t give off the feeling of similarity. I also need to work on maintaining eye contact with all interviewers who are present, not just the individual asking the question. In saying this, from this interview I have learnt about the STAR model which is something I will keep with me forever. I plan to take on board all the feedback said to me so I can give the ‘perfect’ interview when the time comes!

Bibliography:

Prospects. (2021) How to Prepare for an Interview: https://www.prospects.ac.uk/careers-advice/interview-tips/how-to-prepare-for-an-interview

Allen, Jeffrey. (2006) The Complete Q&A Job Interview Book

Va Wizard. The STAR Method of Behavioural Interviewing: https://www.vawizard.org/wiz-pdf/STAR_Method_Interviews.pdf

Martin, Carole. Monster. Interview Tips: 10 Ways to Improve Interview Performance: https://www.monster.com/career-advice/article/boost-your-interview-iq