Republic of the Philippines

BATANGAS STATE UNIVERSITY

The National Engineering University
Alangilan Campus
Golden Country Homes, Alangilan Batangas City, Batangas, Philippines 4200
Tel Nos.: (+63 43) 425-0139 local 2121 / 2221
E-mail Address: [email protected] | Website Address: http://www.batstate-u.edu.ph

College of Engineering – Civil Engineering Department

ENGG 406 - ENGINEERING MANAGEMENT

MOCK JOB INTERVIEW DOCUMENTATION

SUBMITTED BY:

GROUP 3

AQUIATAN, MAGNO ACHILLES C.

BERNARDO, NORRINE GRACE

ENDAYA, JENZ HEDRICH S.

MERCADO, LESLIE JANE P.

OSINSAO, MARY JOY E.

SERVIDAD, ARIANNE JOY L.

BSCE-3103

SUBMITTED TO:

ENGR. ARCHANGEL MICHAEL C. BOOL

INSTRUCTOR

DECEMBER 07, 2024

 TABLE OF CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION.......................................................................................................................... 3

BODY.............................................................................................................................................. 4

SWOT ANALYSIS......................................................................................................................... 10

DOCUMENTED PICTURES AS INTERVIEWEES................................................................. 10

INTERVIEW QUESTIONS.......................................................................................................... 11

DOCUMENTED PICTURES AS INTERVIEWER................................................................... 13

DIFFERENCE BETWEEN BEING AN INTERVIEWER AND 14

INTERVIEWEE.............................................................................................................................

BRIEF EXPLANATION HOW THE CERTAIN QUESTIONS HELPED THE 20

APPLICANTS................................................................................................................................

CONCLUSION............................................................................................................................... 20

CURRICULUM VITAE................................................................................................................ 22

1
 LIST OF TABLES

TABLE 1......................................................................................................................................... 10

LIST OF FIGURES

FIGURE 1....................................................................................................................................... 10

FIGURE 2....................................................................................................................................... 11

FIGURE 3....................................................................................................................................... 13

2
 I. Introduction

Mock interviews serve as an excellent tool for individuals to practice and build confidence before

attending an actual interview. They provide participants with constructive feedback and fresh perspectives

on how to approach specific questions. The primary goal of a mock interview is to help the interviewee

feel more at ease during the real interview. This process typically involves an interviewer, an interviewee,

and a predetermined set of questions tailored to the job position in question. Through mock interviews,

participants can refine their responses and body language, better equipping them for the real experience.

A mock interview allows participants to practice answering questions, hone their responses, and

work on their overall presentation. This process also highlights areas that need improvement, such as

articulating thoughts more clearly, managing nerves, or tackling specific question types. Feedback from a

mock interview serves as an opportunity to fine-tune performance and enhance the likelihood of success.

Additionally, it helps participants improve their communication skills by encouraging them to express

ideas clearly and structure their responses effectively. Practicing in a realistic setting also improves active

listening and the ability to adjust to different conversational styles.

One of the greatest advantages of mock interviews is to gain familiarity with the pressures of a

real interview. They provide a safe environment to practice formulating concise answers, projecting one’s

voice for clarity, and adjusting delivery to create a strong impression. Even for those not entirely

committed to a specific job, the experience gained from mock interviews builds a foundation for future

success in high-stakes scenarios.

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 II. Body

The mock job interview served as a great lesson for me to keep and bring up until the point where

I step in the field of my future career. Prior to the interview, our group has been assigned to be applying

for the position of project engineer. I made proper preparations for the possible interview questions by

asking a few close professionals for tips and advice. In addition, I searched up the internet for frequently

asked questions when applying for this particular career.

The day of the interview finally came and I was first to enter the room as an interviewee. It was

chilly inside but I could pay no mind to the ambience since I was too focused on trying to know what the

questions might be about. The activity began shortly after I greeted them and introduced myself, and my

preparations aligned with the questions that my interviewers gave me, may it be situational, general, or

technical. I gave concise and direct answers with almost no room for dead air for every thought that

comes to mind. As soon as it was our course professor’s turn to ask, I struggled a bit with their question

but I eventually bounced back and remembered what I prepared while still maintaining eye contact with

my interviewers.

I finished the interview with a sigh of relief but at the same time with a boosted confidence. After

every one of us had been asked , we were called once again for the results and feedback. We were all

congratulated and applauded for finishing the activity but I was the one chosen to be hired for the position

we were all applying for. I was surprised but at the same time grateful when I heard my name from our

professor. This experience gave me new learnings and a better understanding on how interviews can boost

our morale and push us to do better for the career we are aiming for.

Aquiatan, Magno Achilles C.

4
 The mock job interview was a nerve-racking but fulfilling experience for me, as interviews have

always been one of my weaknesses. Before the interview, Typhoon Kristine occurred, and I volunteered to

help with rescue operations by encoding and tracking those in need. This commitment left me mentally

and physically drained, but I made an effort to prepare for the activity. I researched the role of Project

Engineer and practiced delivering a brief introduction to ensure I presented myself professionally.

When the day arrived, I entered the interview room feeling a mix of nervousness and

determination. As I began my introduction, I stuttered slightly but managed to complete it. Despite my

initial nerves, I focused on staying composed. Ms. Olarte was the one who asked me a series of both

technical and situational questions. Her voice was soft, and I had to ask her to repeat some questions, but I

made sure to listen attentively. While I stuttered occasionally, I answered each question to the best of my

ability and with confidence.

Leaving the room, I felt an overwhelming sense of relief and pride. I smiled, knowing that,

despite my struggles, I had done my best. Even though I was not selected for the position, the experience

was incredibly rewarding. The positive feedback from the panel boosted my confidence, and I learned a

great deal about handling interviews under pressure.

This mock job interview was a transformative experience for me. It demonstrated the importance

of preparation, resilience, and self-belief, and it inspired me to improve for future interviews. I’m grateful

for this opportunity and confident that it will greatly aid me in my professional journey.

Bernardo, Norrine Grace

5
 The awaited day for the mock job interview has come. To be honest I felt very excited yet

nervous at the same time that day. Right before the actual interview, I had a quiet long day as I

experienced some inconvenience from different unforeseen circumstances. However, I was able to

manage those things and made myself ready for the mock job interview. I got myself dressed up and had a

few rehearsals on what I should do. I made it in a focused and optimistic way so that I could feel myself

more and be more ready by the time my name was called next.

After waiting for quite some time, my name was called. I took a deep breath before finally

entering the interview room to gain more courage and lessen my nervousness. I entered the room with the

mindset that I should do my best in everything I would do. When I was on the spot, I waited for the

command of Engr. Angel to take my seat. As it happened, I simply made a small smile and said thank

you. By that time, the start of the mock job finally commenced. I had my not-so-well-structured

introduction and also stated that I was seeking the Project Engineer position, having a stuttered speech.

After that, the assigned interviewer started to throw me some questions, it was Ms. Faala. She asked

different sorts of questions, having different scopes and fields to ponder on. She stated each question

twice. The first time the question was stated, it was the time I paid more attention to it. By the time she

repeated the question, it was the moment that I got to compose my thoughts. I did that in every single

question she asked. Moreover, I answered each question in a way that I could, I didn’t force myself to

answer it in English and stated some examples and scenarios that could support my claim. I also noticed

the other panels/interviewers had some small nods while I was answering the said questions. Furthermore,

Engr. Angel had thrown his last question on me. I answered it with my will. By the moment I finished

answering, Engr. Angel thanked me and told me that I could go. As I walked towards the exit door, it was

also the moment of realization that I lacked some of the technicalities that I should have.

Moreover, after all the interviewees were interviewed, we were all requested to go inside the

interview room once again. There, Engr. Angel commended each one of us, both the interviewees and the

interviewees, and said that we all did a great job. He also added some key points of improvement for

everyone.

In conclusion, a mock job interview showed a great deal of meaningful components I found

helpful to spot the aspects that I need to address and appreciate further the belief in myself. Also, the

mock job interview served as a preparation that sharpened and enhanced my professional manners. It has

been a great experience and I am excited about what lies ahead.

Endaya, Jenz Hedrich S.

6
 The interview began with a sense of confidence and preparedness. I walked into the room, greeted

the panel with a firm handshake, and introduced myself in a professional and composed manner. As I

settled into my seat, I took a moment to center myself, reminding myself of the extensive preparation I

had undertaken for this opportunity.

The initial stages of the interview were highly structured and allowed me to demonstrate my

technical proficiency and communication skills effectively. I provided a detailed overview of my

academic background in civil engineering, emphasizing the skills I developed during my internships and

coursework. My responses seemed to resonate with the panel, as their expressions and occasional nods

indicated their approval of my answers.

The situational portion of the interview progressed seamlessly. I elaborated on my understanding

of construction methodologies, particularly how they are tailored to meet the unique demands of various

projects. However, a pivotal moment occurred when the discussion shifted to the impact of weather

conditions on project timelines and safety. This question, though relevant, was one I had not anticipated.

For a brief moment, I experienced a pause as I gathered my thoughts. Recognizing the need to

provide a meaningful response, I focused on the critical role of proactive planning. While my response

was clear and addressed the fundamental aspects of the question, I was aware that it lacked the depth and

specificity that my earlier answers had conveyed.

Despite this momentary lapse, I remained composed and continued to engage with the subsequent

questions. I ensured that my closing remarks were confident and professional, thanking the panel for the

opportunity to interview and reiterating my enthusiasm for the role. As I exited the room, I reflected on

my performance and felt a sense of accomplishment, knowing that I had represented myself and my

capabilities effectively.

Later that afternoon, I received feedback, as the hiring decision was being made on the same day.

While I was informed that I had not been selected for the role, the feedback was overwhelmingly positive.

Although they had chosen another candidate, I was reassured by their recognition of my potential and the

constructive nature of their remarks.

This experience served as an affirmation of my readiness for such opportunities. It highlighted

both my strengths and areas for growth, offering valuable insights into the dynamics of professional

interviews. I am confident that this encounter has equipped me with the skills and knowledge necessary to

excel in future endeavors, reinforcing my commitment to continuous improvement in my field.

Mercado, Leslie Jane P.

7
 Experiencing the mock job interview was both a challenging and rewarding experience. In

preparation for the activity, I took time to research the role of a project engineer and I practiced common

interview questions to build my confidence. Despite these efforts, I felt a mix of excitement and

nervousness as the interview began.

During the interview, I was asked a combination of technical and behavioral questions. I found

the technical questions aligned well with my studies, allowing me to demonstrate my knowledge.

However, the situational and behavioral questions challenged me to think critically about my experiences

and articulate them clearly. One of the most unexpected challenges was maintaining composure when

asked a question I hadn’t anticipated. While I managed to respond, I recognized the need to improve my

ability to think on my feet.

The feedback we received from the interviewers was invaluable. They noted our confidence and

subject matter expertise but suggested that we work on refining our answers to be more concise and

organized.

Overall, the mock interview provided me with a safe environment to practice and learn. It helped

me identify areas of improvement and gave me insight into what potential employers might look for in a

candidate. Moving forward, I plan to incorporate this feedback into my preparations for real job

interviews. I will practice more situational questions, enhance my communication skills, and work on

presenting myself more confidently.

This experience has given me greater clarity and confidence in navigating the job application

process, and I am grateful for the opportunity to grow professionally through this activity.

Osinsao, Mary Joy E.

8
 I have had a chance to experience my first mock job during my first year of college, conducted

online. It was a nerve-wracking experience, but I received great feedback, which gave me a surprising

sense of enjoyment. When it was announced that we would have another mock interview in our third year,

this time in a face-to-face setup, I felt nervousness but also excitement. The challenge felt greater, but I

was eager to test myself again.

When our group was assigned to apply for the role of a Project Engineer, my nerves heightened. I

thought this role was one of the most challenging and complicated positions for a Civil Engineer.

Fortunately, we were given ample time to prepare. I spent hours researching the job and practicing

answers to possible questions. By the time the interview day arrived, I had built some confidence, though

I still felt a whirlwind of emotions as I walked into the room.

Being the last to be interviewed, I experienced a mix of anticipation and anxiety, but I was

determined to do my best. During my introduction, I briefly shared my background and highlighted my

readiness for the role. The questions from the panel aligned with the topics I had researched, which

allowed me to answer most of them with clarity. However, when the professor asked a final, more

situational question, I answered confidently, even though I realized it wasn’t the most practical response.

Despite this, I felt proud of my effort and growth. I left the room with gratitude and a strong sense of

accomplishment, knowing the experience had been both challenging and rewarding.

Overall, the mock job interview was incredibly helpful in building my confidence and improving

my communication skills. The experience taught me the value of preparation and self-reflection, and I am

certain it will be an essential stepping stone in my journey toward a successful career.

Servidad, Arianne Joy L.

9
SWOT Analysis

STRENGTHS WEAKNESSES

● Helps students develop critical ● Some students may become over-reliant

interviewing skills, such as on feedback and struggle with real
communication, professionalism, and interview variations.
self-confidence. ● Feedback may vary in depth and accuracy
● Provides a safe environment to simulate depending on the experience of the mock
real life interviews, reducing anxiety for interviewer.
actual interviews.
● Allows students to receive constructive
feedback on their performance, helping
them understand areas for improvement

OPPORTUNITIES THREATS

● Conducting workshops on interview skills ● Some students may not fully engage or
could increase overall student take mock interviews seriously, limiting
participation and confidence. their effectiveness.
● Inviting industry professionals as mock ● Inconsistent feedback from different
interviewers can provide students with interviewers may confuse students about
relevant insights and advice. their strengths and weaknesses.
TABLE 1. SWOT Analysis

Documented Pictures as Interviewees with Interviewers

FIGURE 1. Documented Pictures as Interviewees with Interviewers

10
 FIGURE 2. Hired Applicant

Participating in mock job interviews is a valuable opportunity for us students to practice

responding to questions and experiencing the structure of a real interview. These sessions are structured to

closely resemble real job interviews, providing applicants with a safe learning environment to enhance

their communication skills. It’s especially beneficial for job seekers who need to polish their verbal and

behavioral skills.

Although I wasn’t sure about my chances, as my classmates seemed well-prepared, I focused on

being calm and collected in order to not stagger as I began to answer during the interview. With a

professional resume and appropriate attire, I confidently answered each question after careful

consideration. My efforts paid off, and I was “hired” in the mock scenario.

The experience reinforced the value of self-belief and showed me the importance of presenting

oneself well. It highlighted how confidence impacts interview performance, and I am truly grateful for

this realistic and beneficial practice. The skills I gained here will undoubtedly support my future

job-seeking efforts.

Aquiatan, Magno Achilles C.

(Hired Applicant)

III. Interview Questions

11
 Rockhaven Constructors

"Solid Foundations, Endless Possibilities."

Note: The following list serves only as a guide for the interview. It depends on the interviewer on how

they will ask each applicant using their own words. The interviewers can select what to ask from the

questions below in accordance with the responses of each applicant.

The interviewer must also evaluate the applicant’s resume in order to construct a question based

on the information presented there.

Interview Questions:

Technical Questions:

1. How do you approach value engineering to achieve cost savings without compromising quality?
2. What risks do you usually look for in cost estimations, and how do you account for them?
3. How do your skills and experience align with our company’s goals and projects?
4. How do you balance the initial costs against those long-term operational and maintenance costs?
5. Can you describe how you collaborate with architects/engineers during the design phase of the
project to achieve cost-effectiveness?
6. Can you explain the key factors that affect the cost of materials in construction projects?
7. What is your experience with cost planning and cost management throughout the project
lifecycle?
8. Describe your experience with using software for quantity surveying and cost management. What
software are you familiar with, and how do you leverage its capabilities to improve efficiency and
accuracy?

Situational Questions:
1. In the middle of a project, a client requests changes that will impact the budget. How would you
handle this to balance the client’s needs and project constraints?
2. If a contractor disputes your cost estimates or variations, how would you approach the discussion
and resolve the conflict?
3. Suppose that a project that you are working on has fallen behind schedule, and it will increase the
cost. Therefore, how can you communicate this to your client/stakeholder, and how do you intend
to reduce the additional/further financial risks?
4. Suppose that you are working on multiple projects at once, however, one of them requires urgent
attention due to unforeseen circumstances like financial issues. How would you manage this
situation while keeping all your projects on track?
5. A project has overrun in terms of both time and budget. What steps would you take to bring it
back on track?
6. Midway through a project, a major supplier raises material prices, which will increase project
costs significantly. How do you approach this challenge while keeping the project within budget?
7. Imagine you are working on a project where there is a dispute between the contractor and the
client regarding the interpretation of the contract. How would you approach this situation to
resolve the dispute fairly and efficiently?

12
 8. How do you stay up-to-date with the latest changes in building regulations, construction
materials, and industry standards? What resources do you use to ensure you are providing
accurate and compliant cost estimations?
9. A subcontractor has not been paid on time for their work, and they are threatening to halt
progress. How would you handle this situation while keeping the project on track?
10. While working on a project, unexpected soil conditions are discovered that will affect the
foundation. How would you go about estimating the additional cost for this issue?
11. You’ve been informed that the project is likely to face delays due to upcoming bad weather
conditions. How would you assess the situation, update the project schedule, and mitigate the
financial impact of these delays?

Additional Question:

1. How do you handle situations where the client wants to prioritize cost savings but does not
understand the potential long-term impacts on the project?

Documented Pictures as Interviewers with Interviewees

FIGURE 3. Documented Pictures as Interviewers with Interviewees

13
Difference between being an interviewer and interviewee

The mock job interview we conducted was an invaluable experience that helped me improve in

multiple areas. Such activity allowed us to identify any flaws that we might have and work on them. As

an applicant, I felt a bit nervous and worried about how I would be answering, fearing I might forget and

perform disappointingly . However, the interview went smoothly, and my preparation paid off, resulting

in my being "hired" in the mock setting.

In our position as the interviewers, we prepared questions and a rubric to evaluate each candidate.

Acting professionally and making objective decisions proved challenging, as we needed to assess the

applicants’ skills carefully to choose the best fit for the role. The exercise underscored the importance of

an interviewer’s role in selecting candidates who could contribute to the company’s future success,

making the process feel both impactful and demanding.

This experience highlighted the distinct but equally critical responsibilities of both applicants and

interviewers. While applicants showcase their qualifications, interviewers must gather reliable data and

make thoughtful choices. Participating in both roles provided valuable insights that I can carry into

real-world interviews, making this mock interview an essential part of my personal and professional

development.

Aquiatan, Magno Achilles C.

14
 The mock job interview experience offered a unique opportunity to learn about the interviewer

and interviewee's different points of view. As an interviewee for the Project Engineer position, I felt

pressure to demonstrate my abilities and knowledge, whereas as an interviewer for the Quantity Surveyor

position, I gained insight into the complexities of evaluating candidates.

As an interviewee, I was nervous, especially since interviews have always been a weakness of

mine. I felt the pressure to impress the panel and demonstrate my competence. I focused on articulating

my technical knowledge, problem-solving abilities, and relevant experience, drawing from my academic

background and internship experiences. However, I found it difficult to maintain my composure and

articulate my thoughts clearly, particularly when confronted with unexpected questions. Despite this, I

was able to do my best and leave the room with no regrets.

In contrast, as an interviewer, I felt compelled to conduct a fair and thorough evaluation of the

candidates. I was tasked with developing questions to assess their technical knowledge, problem-solving

abilities, and familiarity with key quantity surveying practices. I found it critical to pay attention to their

communication style, delivery, and overall demeanor to ensure the interview remained objective and

comprehensive. I also learned the value of active listening, which involves probing deeper into responses

to gain a more nuanced understanding of the candidate's expertise.

This dual experience emphasized the importance of preparation, calmness, and active listening in

both roles. As an interviewee, I learned to anticipate unexpected questions and practice my responses to

increase my confidence. As an interviewer, I learned how to ask probing questions, and actively listen to

responses.

Overall, this mock job interview experience has been extremely helpful in preparing me for future

interviews, both as an applicant and as a potential interviewer. It provided an invaluable insight into the

complexities of the interview process and the significance of understanding both sides of the table.

Bernardo, Norrine Grace

15
 The mock job interview gave me a very important insight into how the interviewee and

interviewer take over preparation for the work environment properly. It helped me understand the types of

questions and expectations of the role I am wanting for, Project Engineer, and the role we need, Quantity

Surveyor. In addition, this activity promoted that each one of us must always do our best in all the

possible ways that we could as it will help to build up self-confidence and professionalism.

As the interviewee, despite all of my preparation and rehearsal, I still experienced a high level of

nervousness and consciousness about how the mock job interview would progress. As I got to the table

and faced the interviewers and Engr. Angel, I was able to introduce myself before diving into the

question-and-answer portion/interview itself. Every single word that the interview threw upon me, added

more nervousness making it more difficult for me to compose a well-structured answer. Nevertheless, I

made sure that I answered every single question in a way that the interviewers would agree. I kept to

myself and held the words of encouragement that I brought with me, stating that I should always do my

best in everything that I would do. In that way, I managed to pull up the mock job interview, took my

nervousness away, and patiently waited if I would be hired or not.

On the other hand, being the interviewer for the Quantity Surveyor position has been a very

different feeling. Because I felt that we were the ones controlling the flow of the interview, putting some

pressure on all of the interviewees. By that time, I didn’t have much nervousness and maintained my

self-composition throughout the interview professionally. As for effective communication with the

interviewees, I had been responding with small nods to convey a message of agreement, make the

atmosphere light and smooth, and at the same time boost the confidence of the interviewees. Furthermore,

the final moment, choosing the best of the best has come. That was the time that we the interviewers

shared different insights on who was the one that we’re gonna choose. We had a hard time making the

final decision because we had to make sure that we considered all the interviewees and made sure that we

chose the right one and wouldn’t regret that decision.

In conclusion, I understood that the mock job interview was outstandingly beneficial for the

personal as well as the professional growth of both the interviewee and the interviewer. It really helps us a

lot in preparation for the real-world work environment setup as we future-proof what the world is waiting

for us.

Endaya, Jenz Hedrich S.

16
 The mock job interview offered a valuable opportunity to explore the distinct roles of the

interviewee and interviewer within a professional context. In this exercise, I participated as the

interviewee for a Project Engineer position, while my peer assumed the role of the interviewer for a

Quantity Surveyor position. This setup provided a clear distinction between the responsibilities,

expectations, and objectives associated with each role in the interview process.

As the interviewee, my primary goal was to present myself as a competent and qualified

candidate for the Project Engineer position. I focused on articulating my technical knowledge,

problem-solving abilities, and relevant experience. In answering questions related to project management,

team coordination, and addressing challenges such as project delays, I drew from my academic

background and internship experiences. This approach was intended to demonstrate not only my technical

expertise but also my ability to think critically, collaborate with other professionals, and provide

structured solutions to real-world problems. Throughout the process, maintaining composure, clarity, and

adaptability was essential, as I understood that the interview was an opportunity to showcase my skills

and approach to complex project scenarios.

In contrast, as the interviewer for the Quantity Surveyor position, my responsibility shifted to

assessing the candidate’s qualifications and suitability for the role. I crafted questions aimed at evaluating

their technical knowledge, problem-solving skills, and familiarity with essential quantity surveying

practices. Beyond the content of their answers, I paid close attention to their communication style,

delivery, and overall demeanor. It was critical to ensure the interview remained objective, structured, and

comprehensive, allowing for a thorough evaluation of the candidate’s abilities. Active listening was a

fundamental skill, enabling me to probe deeper into the responses and gain a more nuanced understanding

of the candidate’s expertise. At the conclusion of the interview, I provided constructive feedback, offering

insights into the candidate’s strengths and suggesting areas for improvement to foster their professional

growth.

Overall, the mock job interview proved to be an enriching exercise, enhancing my confidence and

readiness for future interviews. It also provided valuable insight into the complexities of conducting a

structured and objective interview, fostering a deeper understanding of how to effectively assess

candidates and offer meaningful feedback. This experience reinforced the collaborative nature of the

interviewer-interviewee relationship, emphasizing the importance of both roles in achieving a successful

and informative interview process.

Mercado, Leslie Jane P.

17
 Being an interviewer and interviewee gives a completely different feeling. The fine line between

the two is more visible when we see it in the context of “being the watcher vs being watched”.

Sitting at the table expects an approach that focuses on the person before us. We feel like we have

the power to control the conversation and the pace of the interview. At the same time, it can also be

stressful when deciding who among the interviewees fits the role, especially since we do not have that

much knowledge that would qualify us to identify which ones performed well. There was also this

pressure of having to ask substantial questions so that we could receive substantial answers as well. We

had to be more attentive to their responses and make sure we captured important information that they

shared with us. As interviewers, we had to assess the responses in an objective perspective and a

professional manner.

In contrast, when we were the interviewees, the focus was on ourselves. As for my experience, it

was nerve-wracking being watched. I noticed that it was hard to fully understand what was being said or

asked if I was nervous, thus, it can also be as hard to formulate and speak my answers. Moreover,

interviewees are expected to have full comprehension of the job that they are applying for and they must

have carried with them knowledge that they can share with the panel. Every time it was time to answer, I

had this constant thought of having to impress the interviewers, which is not advisable because it can

interfere with the thought process.

Experiencing both sides of the fence was one to mark on the book. It allowed us to be aware of

what it is really like to be in the real world of our profession.

Osinsao, Mary Joy E.

18
 The mock job interviews were really an experience for all of us classmates. For me, personally,

they provided a deeper understanding of how to present myself professionally, handle questions, and stay

composed. It was a hands-on way to learn about professional communication, self-presentation, and

adaptability in real-world scenarios.

The experience was both challenging and eye-opening as an interviewee. The nerves of figuring

out how to answer questions confidently, impress the panel, and deliver detailed responses without mixing

up my words were overwhelming at times. It required a lot of preparation, from researching the role to

practicing responses, but it was worth it because it taught me the importance of being well-prepared and

staying calm under pressure.

I also realized how much effort is needed to be an interviewer. While I initially thought the role of

an interviewer would be easier, I quickly learned it comes with its own challenges. To effectively assess

candidates, the interviewer must understand the job position well enough to evaluate answers critically.

For our mock job setup, we interviewed candidates for the Quantity Surveyor role, which required

technical skills. I spent time researching the responsibilities and qualifications for this position so I could

engage better during the interview and ask relevant questions. It gave me a new perspective on the

importance of preparation, even from the interviewer’s side.

I think it was brilliant of Engr. Bool to allow us to experience both roles—interviewee and

interviewer. Acting as an interviewer gave us insight into how hiring decisions are made and what

employers look for in candidates, while being an interviewee taught us how to present ourselves

effectively. This dual perspective helped us learn in complementary ways, as both roles require

communication, preparation, and the ability to think on your feet.

Servidad, Arianne Joy L.

19
Brief explanation how the certain questions helped the applicants

The mock job interview activity was a significant educational activity that allowed participants to

experience and understand the intricacies of the job interview process by assuming the roles of both

interviewer and interviewee. As interviewees, participants were provided an opportunity to demonstrate

their qualifications, skills, and career aspirations in a structured and professional setting. The targeted

questions, including situational, technical, and behavioral queries, required them to respond thoughtfully

and concisely, enhancing their ability to communicate effectively under pressure. This activity also

enabled them to identify areas for improvement, such as refining their articulation of ideas, improving

non-verbal communication, and addressing gaps in their technical or experiential knowledge.

Similarly, acting as interviewers enabled participants to develop critical evaluative skills, a vital

aspect of professional recruitment processes. By crafting and asking questions, they learned to assess

candidates holistically, focusing not only on technical knowledge but also on problem-solving

capabilities, teamwork, and adaptability. Observing their peers’ responses further allowed them to discern

the characteristics of strong, professional answers, such as clarity, relevance, and confidence. This dual

perspective provided participants with a deeper understanding of the expectations and standards of

professional interviews, thereby enhancing their preparedness for real-world recruitment scenarios.

The dual-role structure of the mock interview fostered a collaborative and constructive learning

environment, where participants were encouraged to provide and receive feedback. This feedback

mechanism was instrumental in helping individuals recognize their strengths and address their

weaknesses. By experiencing both sides of the interview process, participants gained valuable insights

into the skills required to succeed as both applicants and evaluators. Ultimately, this activity bridged the

gap between academic preparation and real-world application, equipping participants with the practical

competencies and confidence necessary to excel in their professional endeavors.

IV. Conclusion

The mock job interview experience was an excellent opportunity for learning for our group,

providing a realistic look at the professional interview process. It helped us better understand the

expectations and challenges that both interviewees and interviewers face, as well as the complexities that

come with hiring. This hands-on activity accelerated our professional development and better prepared us

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for the realities of the job market, providing us with the skills and confidence needed to effectively

present ourselves as candidates and thoughtfully evaluate potential hires.

As interviewees, we realized how crucial thorough preparation is for success. This means not

only researching the role and practicing responses but also building a personal brand that highlights our

unique skills and experiences. Preparation goes beyond memorizing facts—it requires understanding the

company’s values, the role’s specific demands, and the broader industry context. We also learned the

importance of staying calm and clearly articulating our thoughts, even when asked unexpected questions.

Confidence and self-belief emerged as key factors; we found that technical expertise alone isn’t

enough—communicating effectively and projecting confidence can make a lasting impact.

On the other hand, acting as interviewers taught us how to make meaningful assessments. We

learned how to ask thoughtful questions that go beyond surface-level answers, actively listen to

candidates' responses, and provide constructive feedback to help them improve. This role also helped us

understand the complexities of objectively evaluating candidates, taking into account not only their

technical abilities but also their soft skills, personality, and cultural fit. It emphasised how the interview

process is a nuanced, multifaceted interaction that necessitates careful consideration and balance.

Overall, this experience offered us a comprehensive view of the interview process, emphasizing

the collaborative effort required from both sides to achieve a successful outcome. We now feel more

prepared to tackle the job market with confidence, present ourselves as strong candidates, and assess

others effectively. The mock interview gave us a solid foundation and a clearer understanding of the

professional world, setting us up for future challenges and opportunities.

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V. Curriculum Vitae of Members

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