Exploring students’ perceptions of mock job interviews as career preparation: a qualitative inquiry

Citation

Thambirajah, Jeremy Ivan and Mehedar Singh, Harvindar Kaur and Panir Silvam, Yogerisham (2025) Exploring students’ perceptions of mock job interviews as career preparation: a qualitative inquiry. Issues and Perspectives in Business and Social Sciences, 6 (1). pp. 29-45. ISSN 2785-9266

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Abstract

This study exploresundergraduate students’ perceptions of the effectiveness of mock job interviews in preparing them for future careers. With the transition from academia to the professional world posing challenges, simulated interviews offer a practical strategy for bridging this gap. Conducted at a private university in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, this study employed a qualitative design using semi-structured interviews and reflective responses from 17 students. Guided by social constructivism and the competence-based learningframework (CBLF), thematic revealed that mock interviews enhanced students’ confidence, communication skills, and understanding of professional expectations. Participants valued the constructive feedback theyreceived, noting its role in fostering both personal and professional growth. However, some students expressed concerns about the lack of realism in the simulations and called for more structured support to apply these experiences to actual job interviews. The findings offer insights for educators by highlighting the importance of incorporating mock interviews into higher education curricula. Doing so can better equip students with the competencies and confidence needed for future employment. The study concludes with practical recommendations for improving the design and delivery of mock interview programs to ensure that they prepare students for real-world career challengesmore effectively.

Item Type: Article
Uncontrolled Keywords: Career expectations, Mock interviews, Future careers, Group interviews, Private institution students.
Subjects: L Education > LB Theory and practice of education > LB2300 Higher Education
Divisions: Others
Depositing User: Ms Suzilawati Abu Samah
Date Deposited: 08 Jul 2026 03:33
Last Modified: 08 Jul 2026 03:33
URII: http://shdl.mmu.edu.my/id/eprint/16221

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