Ready Yourself for Interviews
The most difficult aspect of job hunts is the fear of an interview. It is a normal consequence of seeking recognition and acceptance from other people, especially from your prospective employers. While speaking about themselves may be natural for some however, many are nervous about being asked about their professional or previous successes. Perhaps it is because of modesty or the discomfort that comes with being asked personal questions The interview process has evolved into among the more intimidating aspects of the hiring process.
This does not have to be the situation.
Interviews are an important way for the applicant to show that their competencies, achievements, and potentials. You have already completed the initial step with your resume passing it through ATS scanners and getting a callback. This is the chance to showcase and elaborate further on the profile of your employer, background, and key skills and knowledge is the aforementioned foot in the door and if you can convince the interviewer you’re the right candidate that increases your chances of passing through the next phase of the selection process.
It is a good idea to prepare for interview questions if you’re struggling with apprehensions about talking about your own achievements. It is important to practice and, fortunately, interview questions can be practiced before the date. The key to flawless interviews is preparation. Here are some tips that you can follow to boost your chances of nailing the interview and impressing your prospective employers:
Get comfortable around tricky questions
Interviewers pose challenging questions mostly because they are trying to get information from you as well as because they want to help you get out of potential contentious issues and concerns. For instance, consider the question "Why have you decided to quit your current position?"
The answer could be due to problems with management, or concerns about the balance between work and life, etc. Whatever the reason however, the manner in which you phrase your response will signal your ability to be a fair and objective observer. Answer honestly and explain your reasoning with the greatest objectivity is possible. This includes removing emotional responses like answers that are based purely on feelings or emotions and are not substantiated by facts.
Other important questions to ask are "What inspired you to apply for this role?", "Why should we choose us?", or trick questions like "Why should we not choose you?" The key is not to lose your cool and plan your thoughts well.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Begin with your topic and follow with a brief reason or summary as to the reason you reacted in a particular way. Add specific examples or provide more details. After you have explained thoroughly the topic, return to the previous section.
In the same way, if you’re requested to provide a description of your participation in a project or task it is possible to apply to describe your involvement in a project or task, you can use the STAR Method, which is often used when responding on selection criteria. When you use STAR you will need to write an Situation,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken as well as the results.
All it is in the body language
The ability to act naturally in stressful situation could be a tall order however, you can make sure you are practicing professional communication. Put yourself in front of the mirror or ask a trusted person to inquire about your concerns and observe your behavior. Are you moving or fidgeting around in a tense manner? Do you appear intimidating, stiff, defensive or aloof in your body expression? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions match the message you’re trying to make? Do you display openness, sincerity, and genuine interest?
Think about your strengths and weaknesses.
Prior to your interview, make sure you review the description of the position. Assuming that you’ve read the description and used the roles and responsibilities described within to customize and modify your resume as well as other selection documents, it is important to look at the job description and how you will present yourself to the interviewer. Be honest and upfront regarding your weaknesses and strengths. Being truthful about your strengths can allow interviewers to recognize your unique selling points as a potential customer. But, indicating your intention to improve your weaknesses is just as relevant.
Prepare questions
Another key aspect of the interview is showing genuine interest in the role and in the company. The best person to inquire for questions during the interview is the one you interview. If you’ve noticed something you like on the resume, or if you’ve got any concerns that weren’t answered by their FAQ page or guide questions (which can be found in the job application or their general hiring page About section) You can raise them at the end of the interview when the interviewer is encouraging you to ask questions. Some thought-provoking questions you may ask your employer include:
"How do I become an ideal candidate for the job, if I am given the chance to be part of the team?"
"Does the company has any major projects going on right now"
"What are the possibilities to advance and further education?"
Know your salary expectations
Other benefits and packages for salary are usually advertised alongside the job (or on a list, for those applying through SEEK). However, interviewers could be interested in knowing what you anticipate earning. An important point to remember is to offer a range within which you’d like your pay to be, rather than providing an exact or fixed number. Make sure to keep your limit to a narrow range instead of providing the possibility of a large margin. For example, if you are expecting to earn $75,000 per year, a good range is anywhere between the $73,000-$80,000 range or anything in the range of $10,000. Be aware of any other benefits and perks too and think about these when you are evaluating your salary expectations.
The preparation steps you have in your bag is vital for ensuring you are in confidence to answer the toughest questions. Be confident, self-assured and bold.
For help with the recruitment process, documents and certificates, as well as for interview preparation, reach out to Perth Resume. Our professional and friendly consultants can guide you through the interview preparation phases. Contact us today to receive an free quotation or contact us directly to speak with one of our consultants at 1300 270 643.
