A Mock Interview is a highly-structured Career Awareness activity in which students are paired one-on-one with a business partner who interviews each student as if he/she were being interviewed by an employer for a paid internship or job. Mock Interviews may be conducted individually at the school, workplace or in a remote classroom. Mock interviews may also be conducted via phone, FaceTime or Skype, if appropriate permissions, protections and guidelines are in place.
The experience allows students to practice their interviewing skills and professional behaviors while at the same time developing a level of comfort in communicating with professionals. A Mock Interview also offers the chance to demonstrate the connection between academic concepts being taught in school and how they are applied in the workplace.
Sustaining and growing Mock Interviews and all other work-based learning activities depend on maintaining positive relationships with the participating employers. These employers should be treated as valued customers and partners with frequent check-ins to address participation needs as they arise.
Mock Interviews are one activity in the continuum of authentic work-based experiences provided to all students engaged in career-related programs or course of study in New York City schools.
*In New York State, this includes certified work-based learning coordinators and others who facilitate, arrange and support work-based learning activities for students.
WBL Travel and Media Consent Form (if interviews take place at company location)
Sample Mock Interview Questions for Employers
Mock Interview Student Reflection Worksheet
Preparing Students for a Mock Interview
Remote and Virtual Fact Sheets
Work-Based Learning Activity Evaluation – Adult
Work-Based Learning Activity Evaluation – Student
Elevator Pitch Classroom Activity
Developing Your Elevator Pitch Worksheet