Ready Yourself for Interviews
One of the most difficult aspects of job searching is the fear of an interview. The fear of an interview is a natural consequence of seeking approval and validation from others and especially your potential employers. While speaking about themselves may come naturally to some people However, some are uncomfortable being asked questions about their career or past accomplishments. Perhaps out of modesty and the discomfort arising from being asked questions that are personal to them interviews have turned out to be among the more intimidating parts during the selection process.
This doesn’t need to be the scenario.
Interviews are the best opportunity for applicants to demonstrate their skills, achievements, and potentials. You have already completed the initial step with your resume passing it through ATS scanners and you getting a callback. This is the chance to showcase and elaborate on one’s profile, employment history, and key skills and expertise is the proverbial entrance into the interview and if you can convince the interviewer you’re qualified this increases your chances of passing through the next step of the final selection process.
Luckily, you can prepare for interview questions if you’re struggling with concerns about presenting your own achievements. It is important to practice and luckily, interview questions can be practiced ahead of time. The key to a flawless interview is preparation. Here are some guidelines you can apply to boost your chances of aceing that interview and impressing prospective employers:
Make yourself comfortable when faced with tricky questions
Interviewers are able to ask tough questions partially because they wish to gather information, but also, since they want to help you get out of potentially contentious issues and concerns. Consider for instance the question "Why are you resigning from your current job?"
The answer to the question could be due to management issues, or concerns regarding work-life balance, for instance. Whatever the reason, however, the manner that you express the answer will indicate your ability to be a fair and objective observer. Respond honestly and explain your answer in the most objective way is possible. This includes removing emotional responses like answers that are based purely on sentiments or feelings, and are not substantiated by factual evidence.
Other questions to be prepared for include "What inspired you to apply for this role?", "Why should be hiring you?", or trick questions such as "Why do us not employ you?" The key is to not lose composure and organise your thoughts carefully.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Lead with your point and follow with a brief argument or explanation of the reason you reacted in a particular way. Next, provide examples or further elaborate. Once you’ve thoroughly explained then return to your previous point.
If you’re required to explain your participation on a project or task, you may use the STAR Method, which is commonly used to respond to criteria for selection. When using STAR, you must state a situation,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken, and lastly, the results.
All it is in the body language
The ability to act naturally in stressful environment can be difficult however, you can make sure you are practicing professional communication. Place yourself in front of a mirror or ask a friend you trust to inquire about your concerns and note your mannerisms. Are you flitting or shifting about with anxiety? Are you looking intimidating, stiff, defensive or aloof in your body or speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions reflect what you want to make? Do you convey sincerity, authenticity and genuine interest?
Be aware of your strengths and weaknesses
Before you go to the interview, make sure you review the job description again. Assuming that you’ve read the description and then used the roles and duties listed in it to alter and personalize your resume and other selection documents, it is important to consider the job description and how you will package yourself for the interviewer. Be open and honest regarding your weaknesses and strengths. Being honest regarding your strengths will allow the interviewer to see your selling points as a prospect. But, indicating your intention to address your weaknesses will be just as relevant.
Prepare questions
Another aspect to consider in the interview is showing genuine enthusiasm about the job and the company. The most appropriate person to ask to ask questions of the person interviewing you is. If you noticed something interesting in the job description or if you have questions not answered on their FAQ page or guide questions (which can be found in the job packet or in their general hiring page about section), raise these at the conclusion of the interview, when your interviewer encourages you to ask questions. The most interesting questions you could ask your employer
"How can I be the most suitable person for the job, if I am given the opportunity to join you and your colleagues?"
"Does the company have any major projects in the pipeline at the moment"
"What are the opportunities to advance and further education?"
Be aware of your salary expectations
Salary packages and other benefits are often advertised with the position (or in a variety for those applying through SEEK). However, interviewers may still inquire about the amount you’re expecting to earn. A good tip is to provide a range in which you’d like your salary to fall instead of offering an exact or set number. Keep your limit to a narrow range instead of providing any wide range. If, for instance, you think you will earn $75,000 in a year, an appropriate range is anywhere between the $73,000-$80,000 range or anyplace within the $10,000 range. Also, be aware of additional perks and benefits too and think about these when you consider your salary goals.
Inputting these steps into your bag is vital to be prepared with the capability to handle the toughest questions. Be confident, be self-assured and bold.
For help with the recruitment process, documents and credentials , and also for interview preparation, contact Perth Resume. Our highly skilled and knowledgeable consultants can assist you in your preparation stages. Contact us today for a no-cost quote or phone us directly to speak to one of our consultants on 1300 202 475.
