Prepping Effectively for Interviews
A major and intimidating aspects of job hunting is the fear of an interview. The fear of an interview is a natural result of wanting to seek recognition and acceptance from other people particularly from prospective employers. While expressing themselves in a positive manner may be natural for some but others feel nervous about being asked questions regarding their professional or previous achievements. Perhaps out of modesty and the discomfort arising from being asked questions about their personal life The interview process has evolved into an extremely stressful parts during the selection process.
This doesn’t have to be the situation.
Interviews are a great opportunity for applicants to showcase their abilities have been demonstrated, as well as their potential. It’s been a while since you’ve made it through the first step and your resume has made an appearance on ATS scanners and getting a callback. This is the chance to showcase and further elaborate on your resume, experience and the most important skills and expertise is the proverbial entrance into the interview: if you convince the interviewer that you have what it takes this increases your chances of passing through the next phase of the final selection process.
There is no need to be worried about preparing for interview questions if you’re struggling with apprehensions about talking about your own achievements. It is important to practice to a successful interview, and luckily, the questions can be practiced ahead of time. The key to a flawless interview is preparation. Here are some suggestions you can implement to improve your chances at nailing that interview and impressing future employers.
Get comfortable around tricky questions
Interviewers are able to ask tough questions partially because they wish to elicit information however, also because they want to help you come out of potential contentious issues and concerns. Take for example the question "Why are you leaving your current position?"
The answer could be due to managerial issues, or worries about work-life balance. No matter the answer but the way in which you phrase the answer will indicate your ability to be an objective and fair observer. Respond honestly and explain your response using as much objectivity possible. This means eliminating any emotional responses such as responses that are based solely on feelings or sentiments and are not substantiated by factual evidence.
Other questions to be prepared for are "What made you apply for this job?", "Why should we choose you?", or trick questions like "Why do be able to not hire 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. Introduce your idea and then follow it up with a short note of the reason or reasons the reason you reacted in a particular manner. Next, provide details or go into more detail. After you’ve clarified your points thoroughly, go back to your original point.
If you’re asked to write about your involvement on a project or task then you can apply to describe your involvement in a project or task, you can use the STAR Method, which is also usually used in responding the selection requirements. When using STAR you will need to write the situation,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken as well as the result.
The body language
Being natural in a stressful environment can be a tall order however, you can practice professional communication. Sit in front of a mirror or ask a trusted person to ask you questions and take note of your actions. Are you fidgeting or shifting about with anxiety? Are you looking rigid, aloof, defensive or reserved in your body expression? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions reflect the message you’re trying to convey? Do you display openness, sincerity and genuine concern?
Be aware of your strengths and your weaknesses.
Before you go to the interview, ensure that you read the job description once more. Assuming that you’ve read the description and utilized the roles and responsibilities described in it to alter and personalize your resume as well as other selection documents It is essential to think about the job description to honestly describe yourself to the interviewer. Be candid and open on your strength and weakness. Being honest about your strengths can allow the interviewer to notice your selling points as a prospective client. However, signalling your intent to address your weaknesses will also be important.
Prepare questions
Another crucial aspect of an interview is to show genuine interest in the job and within the company. The most appropriate person to ask is the interviewer. If you’ve noticed something you like in the job description, or you have concerns that weren’t answered on their FAQ page or their guide questions (which are typically found within the job packet or in the general page for hiring about section) Bring them up during the interview, after 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, should I be given the opportunity to be part of your team?"
"Does the company has any major projects going on currently"
"What are the potential opportunities for advancement and further training?"
Know your salary expectations
The salary package and other benefits are often advertised with the job (or as part of a range if applying through SEEK). However, interviewers may still be interested in knowing what you expect to earn. A good tip is to offer a range within which you’d like your pay to fall instead of offering an exact or set number. Keep your limit to a narrow range instead of providing the possibility of a large margin. For example, if you anticipate earning $75,000 per year, a sensible range would be in the $73,000 to $80,000 or anything in the range of $10,000. Consider other perks and benefits also and take these into consideration when you consider your salary goals.
Having these preparatory steps in your back pocket is essential to be prepared with the confidence to answer the toughest questions. Be confident, be self-assured and courageous.
For help with the recruitment process, documents and credentials and for the preparation for your interview, get in touch with Perth Resume. Our knowledgeable and professional consultants are able to assist you in your preparation steps. Contact us today to receive an free quotation or to call us directly to speak with one our consultants on 1300 202 475.
