Mastering Interview Readiness
A major and intimidating aspects of job hunting is the dreaded interview round. It is a normal consequence of seeking recognition and acceptance from other people and especially your potential employers. Although talking about oneself may be a natural thing for some but others feel nervous about being asked about their career or past successes. Perhaps it is because of modesty or the discomfort arising from being asked questions about their personal life Interviews have become among the more nerve-wracking parts that are required to hire.
This doesn’t have to be the case.
Interviews are the best way for the applicant to show that their competencies as well as their accomplishments and capabilities. You have already completed the initial step, with your resume making an appearance on ATS scanners and your name being shortlisted for an interview. This chance to present and elaborate upon your profile, work history as well as key abilities and abilities is the proverbial way to get noticed If you can convince the interviewer you have what it takes, it boosts your chances of getting through the next phase of the selection process.
It is a good idea to prepare for interviews in case you’re experiencing apprehensions about talking about your accomplishments. Training is the key to success and luckily, interview questions can be rehearsed prior to the time. The secret to flawless interviews is preparation, and here are some suggestions you can apply to boost your chances of nailing the interview and impressing potential employers.
Be comfortable with difficult questions
Interviewers ask challenging questions, partially because they wish to elicit information however, also in order to help you get out of potential contentious issues and concerns. For instance, consider the question "Why have you decided to quit your current job?"
The reason for this could be due to managerial issues, or worries regarding work-life balance, for instance. Whatever the reason however, the manner that you formulate your answer will show your capacity to be a fair and objective observer. Respond honestly and explain your responses with the greatest objectivity feasible. This means removing any emotional responses such as answers based on emotions or feelings and are not substantiated by facts.
Other important questions to ask include "What inspired you to apply for this position?", "Why should we hire your services?", or trick questions like "Why should we not take you on?" The key is to remain calm and plan your thoughts well.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Begin with your topic and then follow it up with a short explanation or a brief summary of the reasons you responded in a certain way. Add examples or further elaborate. After you have explained thoroughly then return to your previous point.
Similarly, if you are asked to describe your involvement in a particular project or task, you may use an approach called the STAR Method, which is also usually used in responding to selection criteria. In using STAR, you must state an scenario,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken then the results.
It’s all in body language
Being natural in a stressful situation may be a tall order but it is possible to learn to communicate professionally. You can sit in front of a mirror or ask a friend you trust to ask questions of you and observe your body language. Are you moving or fidgeting around in a tense manner? Do you seem rigid, aloof, defensive or aloof in your body and speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions in line with the message you’re trying to convey? Do you display genuineness, honesty and genuine interest?
Consider your strengths and weaknesses
Prior to your interview, ensure that you read the job description over again. Assuming you read the job description and used the roles and responsibilities described in it to alter and personalize your resume and other documents for selection It is essential to review the job description and how you will describe yourself to the interviewer. Be open and honest about your strengths and weaknesses. Being open about your strengths will enable interviewers to recognize your unique selling points as a prospect. However, announcing your intention to improve your weaknesses will be just as important.
Prepare questions
Another important aspect of the interview is to show genuine interest in the role and in the business. The best person to approach questions is your interviewer. If you’ve seen something that’s interesting from the job descriptions or if you’ve got any concerns that weren’t answered by their FAQ page or the guide questions (which are usually found in the job application or their general hiring page about section) You can raise them after the interview, when your interviewer encourages you to ask questions. A few questions that you can ask your employer:
"How can I be the most suitable person for the job, if I am given the chance to join members of your staff?"
"Does the company have any major projects on right now"
"What are the potential opportunities to further develop and learn?"
Be aware of your salary expectations
The salary package and other benefits are often advertised with the position (or within a set of options, if applying through SEEK). But, interviewers might ask you how much you are expecting. A good tip is to give a range of where you’d like your salary to fall instead of offering an exact or fixed number. Make sure to keep your range as narrow as possible instead of offering a an expansive margin. For instance, if think you will earn $75,000 in a year, an appropriate range is anywhere between the $73,000-$80,000 range or anything in the range of $10,000. Consider other benefits and perks also and take these into consideration when you evaluate your salary expectations.
These steps to prepare in your pocket is crucial to be prepared with the readiness to face the toughest questions. Be confident, self-assured and bold.
For assistance in recruitment-related documents and credentials and for interview preparation, you may reach out to Perth Resume. Our highly skilled and knowledgeable consultants will be able to assist you in your preparation stages. Contact us now for your free quote or to call us directly to speak to one of our consultants at 1300 202 475.
