Optimizing Your Interview Preparation
One of the most intimidating aspects of the job search is the daunting interview process. Interview fear is a natural result of wanting to seek acceptance and approval from others particularly from prospective employers. While expressing themselves in a positive manner may be a natural thing for some However, some are uncomfortable being asked about their career or past accomplishments. Perhaps due to modesty or the fear of being asked questions about their personal life interviews have turned out to be an extremely nerve-wracking parts of the hiring process.
This doesn’t need to be the scenario.
Interviews are an important means for the candidate to demonstrate their skills as well as their accomplishments and capabilities. You’ve already made it through the first step and your resume has made its way through ATS scanners and being considered for an interview. This is the chance to showcase and further elaborate on your profile, work history, and key skills and knowledge is the aforementioned way to get noticed If you can convince the interviewer you have what it takes that increases your chances to be selected for the next phase of the selection process.
There is no need to be worried about preparing for interviews if you have apprehensions about talking about your own achievements. It is important to practice and luckily, interview questions can be rehearsed prior to the time. The secret to successful interviews is preparation, and here are some guidelines you can follow to boost your chances of aceing that interview and impressing your potential employers.
Be comfortable with difficult questions.
Interviewers pose challenging questions partially because they wish to elicit information however, also in order to help you navigate your way out of potentially contentious topics and worries. Take for example the question "Why have you decided to quit your current job?"
The answer may be because of management concerns, or issues regarding work-life balance, for instance. No matter the answer however, the manner that you express 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 can be. This means removing emotional responses like answers that are based purely on feelings or sentiments and do not have any basis in facts.
Other questions to be prepared for are "What motivated you to apply for this position?", "Why should we hire the person we chose to hire?", or trick questions like "Why should we not choose you?" The key is to stay calm and plan your thoughts well.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Introduce your idea and follow with a brief explanation or a brief summary of the reason you reacted in a particular way. Add details or go into more detail. After you’ve clarified your points thoroughly then return to your previous point.
If you’re asked to describe your involvement in a project or task then you can utilize an approach called the STAR Method, which is often used when responding the selection requirements. When you use STAR the first thing you need to do is write an situation,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken then the result.
It’s all in the body language
The ability to act naturally in difficult situation can be a challenge However, you can practice professional communication. Place yourself in front of a mirror or ask a friend you trust to ask questions and note your mannerisms. Are you fidgeting or shifting around with a nervousness? Do you look intimidating, stiff, defensive, or closed off in your body expression? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions reflect what you want to convey? Do you display openness, sincerity and genuine concern?
Take a look at your strengths and weaknesses.
Prior to your interview, ensure that you read the description of the position. If you have read the job description and used the roles and duties listed in it to alter and personalize your resume and other document of selection, it is important to think about the job description and how you will present yourself to the interviewer. Be open and honest about your strengths and weaknesses. Being truthful regarding your strengths will allow interviewers to recognize your strengths as a potential customer. However, showing your determination to address your weaknesses will be just as notable.
Prepare questions
Another key aspect of the interview is to show genuine interest in the role and in the company. The best person to ask is the interviewer. If you noticed something interesting from the job descriptions, or you have questions not answered on their FAQ page or the guide questions (which can be found in the job packet or the general page for hiring about section) Make sure to bring them up after the interview when the interviewer invites you to ask questions. A few questions that you can ask your employer
"How can I be an ideal candidate for the job, if I am given the opportunity to be part of members of your staff?"
"Does the company have any major projects underway at the moment"
"What are the potential opportunities for advancement and further training?"
Be aware of your salary expectations
Salary packages and other benefits are often advertised with the position (or within a set of options, when applying via SEEK). However, interviewers could ask you how much you are expecting. A good tip is to provide a range in which you’d like your pay to be based instead of giving an exact or set number. Make sure to keep your limit to a narrow range instead of providing any wide range. For example, if you anticipate earning $75,000 per year, a good range would be in the $73,000 to $80,000 range, or anywhere within the $10,000 range. Be aware of any additional perks and benefits as well and consider these when you think about your salary expectations.
Inputting these steps into your back pocket is essential to ensure you have the ability to tackle the most difficult questions. Be confident, feel confident and be courageous.
For help with the recruitment process, documents and credentials , and also for interviews, please get in touch with Perth Resume. Our friendly and highly trained consultants can assist you in your preparation steps. Contact us now for a complimentary quote or call us direct for a chat with one of our experts on 1300 093 809.
