Does Practicing for an Interview Really Help?

Interview preparation is often overlooked by candidates seeking a dream job. The reality is that interview practice is necessary and expected. Nail the interview, and secure the job by practicing interview questions, mannerisms and body language before walking through the door to sell your skills and experience.

Candidates with impressive cover letters and resumes are not guaranteed the job. Impress hiring managers more by engaging in interview practice drills days or even weeks before your scheduled time to meet with a potential employer. Create a list of potential questions you may be asked, and prepare responses that focus on traits and skills the employer is seeking, suggests CareerCloud. Mirror the job description when preparing your responses, and use keywords and industry jargon related to the industry.

Research what skills and experience the business is seeking in a candidate, and show how your goals and work habits align with the company's mission and company culture within your responses to interview questions. Avoid memorizing full responses. Instead, focus on emphasizing your key skills and how they are useful within the position.

Interview practice can occur at any time. Rehearse responses to interview questions while driving or completing household chores. Work on your tone of voice to ensure you sound confident when describing your experience and skills. Investigate aspects of the company that you find impressive or admirable, and incorporate your findings into your responses to interview questions. Employers seek candidates who are knowledgeable about the company and invested in the philosophy and mission of the organization.

Stand in front of a mirror to analyze your body language and facial expressions as part of your interview practice. Pay close attention to your eye contact to ensure you are not looking down or away from the interviewer when practicing. Eye contact indicates that you are confident and truthful. Practice smiling when waiting for interview questions, and avoid any distracting habits, such as tapping your foot or fingers on a table. Pay close attention to nervous ticks, such as the temptation to play with your hair, wringing your hands in your lap, or crossing and uncrossing your legs.

Determining what to wear is also a key part of interview practice and interview preparation. Iron clothes, and choose a business suit that is not too loud or colorful. Avoid wearing distracting accessories, dangling earrings or jewelry pieces that make sounds when you move. Keep your attire simple and professional to make the best impression.

Employers seek applicants who are prepared, professional and personable. Candidates who engage in interview practice well before the big day allow themselves time to work on how to best display their professionalism and confidence. Show that you are the best candidate by preparing interview questions and by focusing on how you present yourself during the interview.

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