Prepping Effectively for Interviews
Perhaps the most daunting aspect of job hunts is the fear of an interview. The fear of an interview is a natural consequence of seeking recognition and acceptance from other people particularly from prospective employers. Although expressing their opinions about themselves might seem natural to certain people However, some are uncomfortable being asked questions regarding their career or past successes. Perhaps out of modesty and the anxiety that comes from being asked to answer personal questions Interviews have become one of the most stressful parts of the hiring process.
This doesn’t have to be the case.
Interviews are a crucial opportunity for applicants to show that their competencies have been demonstrated, as well as their potential. You’ve made it through the first step with your resume passing its way through ATS scanners and your name being shortlisted for an interview. This chance to present and elaborate upon the profile of your employer, background and the most important skills and expertise is the proverbial step to the front when you convince the interviewer that you’re a good fit this increases your chances to be selected for the next phase of the selection process.
Luckily, you can prepare for interviews if you have apprehensions about talking about your achievements. The practice is essential and luckily, interview questions can be practiced ahead of time. The key to a flawless interview is preparation. Here are some helpful tips you can apply to boost your chances of nailing the interview and impressing your prospective employers:
Get comfortable around tricky questions
Interviewers ask challenging questions, in part, to elicit information, but also, because they want to see you come out of potentially contentious topics and concerns. Consider for instance the question "Why do you want to leave your current job?"
The answer to the question may be because of managerial issues, or worries with work-life balance, etc. No matter the answer however, the manner the way you frame your answer will demonstrate your capacity to be a fair and objective observer. Answer honestly and explain your responses with the greatest objectivity can be. This means removing all emotional responses, like answers based on feelings or emotions that are not supported by factual evidence.
Other important questions to ask include "What did you do to get this job?", "Why should we hire us?", or trick questions like "Why do be able to not employ you?" The key is to not lose composure and organize your thoughts in a systematic manner.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Start with your statement and follow with a brief reason or summary as to why you chose to respond in a specific manner. Next, provide examples or further elaborate. Once you’ve thoroughly explained the topic, return to your original point.
Also, if asked to write about your involvement in a particular project or task it is possible to use an approach called the STAR Method, which is commonly used to respond to criteria for selection. In using STAR you will need to write the Situation,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken as well as the final result.
It’s all in the body language
The ability to act naturally in stressful situation may be difficult However, you can practice professional communication. Put yourself in front of the mirror or ask a trusted friend to ask you questions and take note of your actions. Are you fidgeting or shifting about with anxiety? Do you seem stiff, standoffish, defensive or aloof in your body language? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions consistent with what you want to convey? Do you display sincerity, authenticity, and genuine interest?
Take a look at your strengths and your weaknesses.
Prior to the interview, you should go over the job description again. Assuming you read the job description and then used the roles and responsibilities listed in it to alter and personalize your resume and other document of selection, it is important to review the job description and how you will package yourself for the interviewer. Be honest and upfront concerning your abilities and shortcomings. Being realistic about your strengths will allow the interviewer to note your selling points as a potential customer. But, indicating your intention to address your weaknesses is just as significant.
Prepare questions
Another important aspect of the interview is showing genuine interest in the role and in the company. The best person to approach is the interviewer. If you noticed something interesting in the job description or if you have questions not answered on their FAQ page or guide questions (which typically are found in the job packet or their general hiring page About section) Bring them up during the interview, when your interviewer is encouraging you to ask questions. The most interesting questions you could ask your employer:
"How do I become the most qualified person for this task, if given the opportunity to be part of members of your staff?"
"Does the company have any major projects underway in the present"
"What are the chances to advance and further education?"
Be aware of your salary expectations
Benefits and salary packages are usually advertised alongside the job (or as part of a range, when applying via SEEK). However, the interviewer may ask you how much you’re expecting to earn. A good tip is to offer a range within which you’d like your pay to fall rather than giving an exact number or a set amount. Try to keep your limits to a certain extent instead of allowing a a wide margin. For example, if you are expecting to earn $75,000 per year, a good range would be in the $73,000 to $80,000 or anywhere within the $10,000-$10,000 range. Also, be aware of other benefits and perks as well and consider these when you evaluate your salary goals.
These steps to prepare in your pocket is crucial to equip yourself with the ability to tackle the most difficult questions. Be confident, feel confident, and be bold.
For assistance in recruitment-related documents and credentials and for the preparation for your interview, reach out to Perth Resume. Our knowledgeable and professional consultants can assist you in your preparation steps. Contact us now for your free quotation or to call us directly to speak with one our consultants on 1300 202 475.
