Mastering Interview Readiness
Perhaps the most daunting aspects of the job search is the interview stage. Interview fear is a natural consequence of seeking acceptance and approval from others in particular from potential employers. Although talking about oneself may be a natural thing for some but others feel nervous about being asked about their work or prior achievements. Perhaps because of modesty, or the discomfort arising from being asked personal questions, the interview has become one of the biggest and most intimidating aspects in the process of hiring.
It doesn’t have to be the scenario.
Interviews are a great way for the applicant to show that their competencies are, their achievements, and potential. It’s been a while since you’ve made it through the first step and your resume has made the cut through ATS scanners and being considered for an interview. This chance to present and elaborate on one’s profile, employment history and the most important skills and knowledge is the aforementioned foot in the door and if you can convince the interviewer that you’re the right candidate you increase your odds of passing through to the next step in the selection process.
Luckily, you can prepare for interviews in case you’re experiencing doubts about speaking about your accomplishments. The practice is essential and luckily, interview questions can be rehearsed prior to the time. The secret to flawless interviews is preparation. Here are some suggestions you can use to increase your chances at nailing that interview and impressing potential employers.
Be comfortable with difficult questions
Interviewers will ask you tough questions, mostly because they are trying to elicit information and information, but also because they want to see you come out of potentially contentious issues and issues. Take for example the question "Why are you resigning from your current job?"
The reason for this could be due to managerial issues, or worries about the balance between work and life, etc. Whatever the reason but the way in which you phrase the answer will indicate your capacity to be an objective and fair observer. Answer honestly and explain your answer in the most objective way possible. This includes removing any emotional responses , such as answers based on emotions or feelings and are not substantiated by facts.
Other questions to prepare for include "What motivated you to apply for this position?", "Why should be hiring the person we chose to hire?", or trick questions like "Why do you not take you on?" The key is to remain calm and organize your thoughts in a systematic manner.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Introduce your idea and then provide a concise note of the reason or reasons the reason you reacted in a particular way. Next, provide instances or elaborate. Once you’ve explained everything thoroughly you can go back to the point you made earlier.
In the same way, if you’re asked to describe your involvement in a task or project then you can use this method. STAR Method, which is typically used to respond to criteria for selection. In using STAR the first thing you need to do is write a situation,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken as well as the results.
It’s all in the body language
Being natural in a stressful environment can be difficult, but you can always try to practice professional communication. Put yourself in front of the mirror or ask a trusted person to inquire about your concerns and observe your body language. Are you moving or fidgeting around with a nervousness? Are you looking intimidating, stiff, defensive or aloof in your body language? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions reflect the message you’re trying to convey? Do you communicate genuineness, honesty and genuine concern?
Take a look at your strengths and weak points.
Prior to your interview, ensure that you go over the job description again. Assuming that you’ve read the description and used the roles and duties listed therein to modify and customise your resume and other documents for selection, it is important to think about the job description to clearly describe yourself to the interviewer. Be open and honest about your strengths and weaknesses. Being realistic about your strengths can allow the interviewer to see your strengths as a potential client. However, signalling your intent to improve your weak points will be equally relevant.
Prepare questions
Another aspect to consider in the interview is to show genuine interest about the job and the company. The most appropriate person to ask for questions during the interview is the one you interview. If you’ve noticed something you like from the job descriptions or you have concerns that weren’t answered on their FAQ page or their guide questions (which can be found in the job description or their general hiring page about section) You can raise them during the interview when the interviewer invites you to ask questions. The most interesting questions you could ask your employer:
"How can I be the most qualified person for this job, if I am given the chance to join you and your colleagues?"
"Does the company have any major projects on right now"
"What are the chances to further develop and learn?"
Be aware of your salary expectations
Other benefits and packages for salary are often advertised with the job (or in a variety, if applying through SEEK). However, interviewers could want to know what salary you anticipate earning. An important point to remember is to give a range of where you would like your salary to be based instead of 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 instance, if you anticipate earning $75,000 per year, an appropriate range would be anywhere in the $73,000 to $80,000 or anywhere within the $10,000-$10,000 range. Also, be aware of other perks and benefits in addition to these when you are evaluating your salary goals.
Having these preparatory steps in your back pocket is essential to equip yourself with the capability to handle the toughest questions. Be confident, self-assured, and be bold.
To assist with recruitment-related documents and credentials , and also for the preparation for your interview, get in touch with Perth Resume. Our professional and friendly consultants are able to assist you in your preparation phases. Contact us today for your no-cost quote or phone us directly to speak with one our consultants at 1300 202 320.
