Mastering Interview Readiness
Perhaps the most intimidating aspect of job hunts is the interview stage. Interview fear is a natural result of wanting to seek approval and validation from others and especially your potential employers. While speaking about themselves may be a natural thing for some however, many are nervous about being asked questions regarding their careers or their previous successes. Perhaps it is because of modesty or the fear of being asked questions that are personal to them, the interview has become one of the most intimidating aspects that are required to hire.
This doesn’t need to be the situation.
Interviews are the best opportunity for applicants to prove their capabilities, achievements, and potentials. You’ve made it through the first step by submitting your resume to the cut through ATS scanners and you being considered for an interview. This opportunity to present and further elaborate on one’s profile, employment history, and key skills and expertise is the proverbial foot in the door when you convince the interviewer that you’re qualified that increases your chances of getting through the next step of the final selection process.
There is no need to be worried about preparing for interviews in case you’re experiencing apprehensions about talking about your accomplishments. It is important to practice and, fortunately, interview questions can be practiced prior to the time. The secret to successful interviews is preparation. Here are some tips that you can implement to improve your chances of getting through that interview and impressing potential employers.
Learn to be comfortable around difficult questions
Interviewers will ask you tough questions, mostly because they are trying to get information from you, but also, in order to help you navigate your way out of potentially contentious questions and issues. Take for example the question "Why are you resigning from your current position?"
The answer to this question could be due to management concerns, or issues with work-life balance, etc. Whatever the reason, however, the manner the way you frame the answer will indicate your ability to be an objective and fair observer. Give a clear and honest explanation of your reasoning in the most objective way is possible. This means that you should eliminate any emotional responses , such as responses based on sentiments or feelings, and do not have any basis in facts.
Other questions to prepare for include "What motivated you to apply for this role?", "Why should we hire the person we chose to hire?", or trick questions like "Why do we not employ you?" The key is to remain calm and arrange your thoughts with care.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Begin with your topic and follow up with a short reason or summary as to the reasons you responded in a certain manner. After that, you can add instances or elaborate. Once you’ve explained everything thoroughly then return to the previous section.
Similarly, if you are asked to write about your involvement in a project or task and you are required to describe your involvement, you could employ to describe your involvement in a project or task, you can use the STAR Method, which is also usually used in responding on selection criteria. When using STAR the first thing you need to do is write the scenario,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken, and lastly, the results.
It’s all in the body language
Behaving naturally in a stressful environment can be a tall order but it is possible to learn to communicate professionally. Sit in front of a mirror or ask a friend you trust to inquire about your concerns and take note of your actions. Are you flitting or shifting around with a nervousness? Are you looking stiff, standoffish, defensive, or closed off in your body and speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions reflect the message you’re trying to convey? Do you show authenticity, openness and genuine concern?
Consider your strengths and weaknesses.
Prior to your interview, make sure you go over the job description over again. In the event that you’ve read the description and utilized the roles and responsibilities listed in the description to make changes to your resume and other document of selection, it is important to consider the job description to honestly describe yourself to the interviewer. Be candid and open concerning your abilities and shortcomings. Being open about your strengths will enable the interviewer to notice your unique selling points as a prospect. However, announcing your intention to address your weaknesses will be just as significant.
Prepare questions
Another key aspect of the interview is showing genuine enthusiasm for the position and the company. The most appropriate 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’ve got any questions not answered through their FAQ or their guide questions (which are usually found in the job packet or their general hiring page about section) You can raise them after the interview when the interviewer is encouraging you to ask questions. Some thought-provoking questions you may ask your employer:
"How can I be an ideal candidate for the job, if I am given the opportunity to join members of your staff?"
"Does the company have any major projects in the pipeline in the present"
"What are the possibilities for further development and training?"
Know your salary expectations
Salary packages and other benefits are typically advertised along with the position (or in a variety in the case of SEEK). However, interviewers may still be interested in knowing what you are expecting. An important point to remember is to offer a range within which you’d like your earnings to fall rather than giving an exact number or a set amount. Make sure to keep your limit to a narrow range instead of providing any wide range. For instance, if you anticipate earning $75,000 per year, an appropriate choice would be anything from the $73,000-$80,000 range or anything in the range of $10,000. Be aware of any additional perks and benefits also and take these into consideration when you are evaluating your salary expectations.
Inputting these steps into your back pocket is essential for ensuring you are in readiness to face the toughest questions. Be confident, be self-assured and be courageous.
For assistance in recruitment-related documents and credentials , and also for the preparation for your interview, contact Perth Resume. Our friendly and highly trained consultants can help you through your preparatory phases. Contact us today to receive your free quote or to call us directly to speak with one our consultants at 1300 202 475.
