A Guide to Interview Preparation
Perhaps the most daunting aspect of job hunts is the daunting interview process. It is a normal result of wanting approval and validation from others and especially your potential employers. While speaking about themselves may seem natural to certain people However, some are uncomfortable being asked questions about their work or prior achievements. Perhaps out of modesty and the anxiety that comes from being asked questions about their personal life The interview process has evolved into among the more intimidating 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 passing the cut through ATS scanners, and your name getting a callback. The chance to show and elaborate further on your resume, experience as well as the key skills and knowledge is the aforementioned way to get noticed If you can convince the interviewer that you’re a good fit you increase your odds to be selected for the next phase of the selection process.
It is a good idea to prepare for interviews if you have fears about speaking about your own achievements. Training is the key to success, and fortunately, interview questions can be rehearsed prior to the time. The key to flawless interviews is preparation, and here are some suggestions you can follow to boost your chances of nailing the interview and impressing your future employers:
Be comfortable with difficult questions
Interviewers ask challenging questions, partly because they want to gain information as well as because they want to help you get out of potentially contentious questions and concerns. Consider for instance the question "Why have you decided to quit your current position?"
The answer may be because of managerial issues, or worries about work-life balance. Whatever the reason however, the manner that you formulate your answer will demonstrate your capacity to be a fair and objective observer. Give a clear and honest explanation of your answer with as much objectivity as possible. This means removing any emotional responses such as responses based on feelings or sentiments and do not have any basis in factual evidence.
Other questions to be prepared for are "What did you do to get this position?", "Why should we hire you?", or trick questions like "Why do we not employ you?" The key is to remain calm and organise your thoughts carefully.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Lead with your point and then provide a concise note of the reason or reasons the reasons you responded in a certain manner. Next, provide examples or further elaborate. After you’ve clarified your points thoroughly then return to your previous point.
In the same way, if you’re asked to write about your involvement in a particular project or task then you can use this method. STAR Method, which is also usually used in responding to criteria for selection. In using STAR you will need to write a Situation,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken as well as the final result.
It’s all in the body language
The ability to act naturally in stressful situation could be difficult However, you can try to practice professional communication. Put yourself in front of the mirror or ask a friend you trust to ask you questions and note your mannerisms. Are you flitting or shifting around with a nervousness? Are you looking uneasy, aggressive, or closed off in your body and speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions consistent with what you want to convey? Do you convey genuineness, honesty, and genuine interest?
Think about your strengths and weaknesses.
Before you go to the interview, ensure that you read the description of the position. Assuming that you’ve read the description and applied the roles and responsibilities described therein to modify and customise your resume and other document of selection It is imperative to review the job description to honestly present yourself to the interviewer. Be upfront and honest about your strengths and weaknesses. Being realistic about your strengths will allow the interviewer to see your unique selling points as a prospective client. However, signalling your intent to address your weaknesses will also be relevant.
Prepare questions
Another aspect to consider in the interview is showing genuine interest about the job and the business. The most appropriate person to ask for questions during the interview is the one you interview. If you’ve noticed something you like on the resume, or if you have questions not answered by their FAQ page or guide questions (which are usually found in the job description or their general hiring page About section), raise these at the conclusion of the interview, after your interviewer is encouraging you to ask questions. The most interesting questions you could ask your employer
"How do I become an ideal candidate for the job, should I be given the chance to be part of members of your staff?"
"Does the company have any major projects in the pipeline right now"
"What are the opportunities to further develop and learn?"
Know what your salary expectations are.
Other benefits and packages for salary are generally advertised with the job (or as part of a range if applying through SEEK). However, interviewers may still be interested in knowing what you’re expecting to earn. A good tip is to offer a range within which you’d like your earnings to fall instead of offering an exact or fixed number. Make sure to keep your range tight instead of giving the possibility of a large margin. For instance, if you expect to make $75,000 a year, an appropriate range would be anywhere in the $73,000 to $80,000 area or anywhere within the $10,000-$10,000 range. Also, be aware of additional perks and benefits too and think about these when you evaluate your salary goals.
Having these preparatory steps in your back pocket is essential for ensuring you are in confidence to answer the toughest questions. Be confident, feel confident, and be bold.
For help with the recruitment process, documents or credentials as well as interview preparation, get in touch with Perth Resume. Our professional and friendly consultants are able to help you with your interview preparation steps. Contact us today for a complimentary quote or phone us directly to speak to one of our consultants at 1300 202 475.
