Interview Readiness Blueprint
One of the most frightening aspects of the job search is the daunting interview process. Fear of being interviewed is a natural result of wanting recognition and acceptance from other people particularly from prospective employers. Although talking about oneself may be natural for some however, many are nervous about being asked about their work or prior accomplishments. Perhaps out of modesty and the fear of being asked to answer personal questions, the interview has become among the more intimidating aspects that are required to hire.
It doesn’t have to be the scenario.
Interviews are the best way for the applicant to showcase their abilities are, their achievements, and potential. You’ve made it through the first step by submitting your resume to the cut through ATS scanners, and your name being selected for an interview. This is the chance to showcase and further elaborate on one’s profile, employment history and the most important skills and abilities is the proverbial foot in the door and if you can convince the interviewer you’re the right candidate that increases your chances to be selected for the next phase of the selection process.
Luckily, you can prepare for interview questions if you’re struggling with apprehensions about talking about your achievements. It is important to practice and luckily, interview questions can be rehearsed prior to the time. The key to a flawless interview is preparation. Here are some tips that you can implement to improve your chances of aceing that interview and impressing your potential employers.
Be comfortable with difficult questions.
Interviewers ask challenging questions, mostly because they are trying to gain information, but also, because they want to help how you can get rid of potential contentious issues and concerns. Consider for instance the question "Why are you resigning from your current position?"
The reason for this may be because of management concerns, or issues with work-life balance, etc. Whatever the reason, however, the manner in which you phrase the answer will indicate your ability to be a fair and objective observer. Be honest and articulate your answer using as much objectivity possible. This means that you should eliminate all emotional responses, like responses based on emotions or feelings and are not substantiated by evidence.
Other questions to prepare for include "What did you do to get this job?", "Why should be hiring the person we chose to hire?", or trick questions like "Why do you not choose you?" The key is not to lose your cool 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 then provide a concise note of the reason or reasons why you responded a certain manner. Add specific examples or provide more details. After you’ve clarified your points thoroughly then return to the point you made earlier.
Also, if requested to provide a description of your participation in a particular project or task then you can apply the STAR Method, which is also usually used in responding the selection requirements. If you are using STAR you will need to write the Situation,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken then the final result.
The body language
Being natural in a stressful situation may be a tall order, but you can always learn to communicate professionally. Place yourself in front of a mirror or ask a friend you trust to ask you questions and take note of your actions. Are you shifting or fidgeting around in a tense manner? Do you seem rigid, aloof, defensive or shut off in your body language? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions in line with the message you’re trying to make? Do you display sincerity, authenticity and genuine interest?
Think about your strengths and weaknesses.
Prior to the interview, you should review the job description again. Assuming that you’ve read the description and utilized the roles and responsibilities described therein to modify and customise your resume and other selection documents It is imperative to think about the job description and how you will package yourself for the interviewer. Be honest and upfront regarding your weaknesses and strengths. Being realistic about your strengths will allow interviewers to recognize your unique selling points as a prospect. However, showing your determination to improve your weaknesses will also be significant.
Prepare questions
Another important aspect of the interview is to show genuine interest about the job and the company. The best person to ask for questions during the interview is the one you interview. If you have noticed something intriguing from the job descriptions, or if you have questions not answered through their FAQ or their guide questions (which are typically found within the job packet or the general page for hiring About section) You can raise them after the interview, after your interviewer asks you to pose questions. A few questions that you can ask your employer
"How do I become the best person for the job, should I be given the chance to be part of members of your staff?"
"Does the company have any major projects on at the moment"
"What are the chances for advancement and further training?"
Be aware of your salary expectations
Salary packages and other benefits are generally advertised with the job (or in a variety, for those applying through SEEK). However, interviewers could ask you how much you are expecting. The most important thing to do is give a range of where you’d like your pay to be, rather than providing an exact number or a set amount. Keep your range tight instead of giving a wide margin. For example, if you are expecting to earn $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. Be mindful of additional perks and benefits too and think about these when you consider your salary goals.
These steps to prepare in your back pocket is essential to be prepared with the ability to tackle the most difficult questions. Be confident, be self-assured and bold.
If you need assistance with documents related to recruitment and credentials and for the preparation for your interview, contact Perth Resume. Our highly skilled and knowledgeable consultants will be able to help you with your interview preparation steps. Contact us today to receive your free quote or to call us directly for a chat with one of our experts on 1300 202 475.
