Teaching interview skills through observation, practice, and feedback

Job interviews play a central role in hiring decisions, yet many students enter the job market with limited experience and heightened anxiety about interview performance. This paper describes a structured mock interview assignment designed to help students develop confidence and skill in responding to common interview questions. Drawing on social and experiential learning theories, the activity integrates observation, practice, and feedback across multiple stages. The exercise is well suited for courses that emphasize oral communication skills and is particularly appropriate for junior and senior-level students preparing for internships or full-time employment. Keywords: Job interviews, oral communication, real-world learning, feedback, peer learning