Mock Interviews

Volunteers from the HR community and other fields conduct mock job interviews and resume reviews year-round. Most mock interviews take place in person at high schools or the Oregon Convention Center, while others take place virtually. Volunteers offer positive, constructive feedback that help students for their next “real” interview. 

Mock Interviews & Career Talks at the Expo 

How to sign up: Educators may request mock interviews for their students when registering their school for the Expo. We can expect drop-ins as space permits, but please sign up in advance. (Hundreds of students typically seek interviews, which requires careful planning to recruit volunteers and minimize wait times.) 

Where mock interviews take place: In the meeting rooms outside the Expo Hall.

Mock interview questions: You can review the mock interview questions and feedback form here.

About resumes: Please require or strongly encourage your students to bring resumes. 

What students receive: Students receive a Certificate of Completion for completing a mock interview or attending a Career Talk. 

More about Career Talks: These are 20-minute talks, given by HR professionals,  on subjects such as “Landing a Job” or “Acing Your Interview.” 

See our Educator Resources page or contact PWA staff for more information.

How to Prepare for a Job Interview

View tips below and download our "Tips for Professional Success" in English and Spanish.

Common Interview Questions
  • Can you tell me a little bit about yourself?
  • What are your goals in the next 2-3 years, and how do you plan to achieve them?
  • What do you consider to be your strengths, and why?
  • Describe a time when you faced a challenge at school and how you handled it.
  • Why should I hire you?
  • Do you have any questions for me?

Interview Tips for Students

Make sure you’re at your best for the interview - remind yourself the importance of first impressions!

  • Get a good night’s sleep & eat a good breakfast!
  • Wear clothing that makes you feel comfortable and confident. Follow your school district's dress code policy regarding appropriate clothing and dress. 
  • Bring a copy of your resume
  • Maintain good posture
  • Make eye contact – but remember, it’s not a staring contest!
  • Be polite & give your full attention to the interviewer
  • Be confident and articulate in your answers

Volunteer Information

Tips for Conducting a Mock Interview
  • Interview students for about 7-10 minutes.
  • When the interview is complete, evaluate the student and share feedback.
  • Be friendly. Ask challenging questions. Listen carefully.
  • Give students feedback that will encourage them and help them do better in future interviews.
  • Emphasize the positive: Begin and end your evaluation with positive feedback, and gently discuss areas needing improvement.
  • Arrive on time, dress professionally and have fun with students as they practice their interviewing skills.
Volunteering After the Expo

PWA also works year-round to recruit HR volunteers and facilitate mock interviews and resume workshops at Portland-area high schools, working in close partnership with the Portland Human Resource Management Association. HR professionals, please contact us if you'd like to sign up for year-round volunteering options, or visit the Get Involved page for more information.

Thank you to the Portland HR Management Association and Southridge High School for contributing to this material.