Optimizing Your Interview Preparation
Perhaps the most daunting aspects of the job search is the interview stage. The fear of an interview is a natural result of wanting to seek the approval and support of others particularly from prospective employers. While speaking about themselves may be natural for some however, many are nervous about being asked questions regarding their careers or their previous accomplishments. Perhaps out of modesty and the fear of being asked questions that are personal to them interviews have turned out to be one of the most intimidating parts in the process of hiring.
This does not have to be the situation.
Interviews are an important opportunity for applicants to show that their competencies have been demonstrated, as well as their potential. You’ve already made it through the first step and your resume has made it through ATS scanners, and your name being selected for an interview. The chance to show and further elaborate on your profile, work history and the most important skills and expertise is the proverbial way to get noticed: if you convince the interviewer that you have what it takes you increase your odds of getting through the next stage of the selection process.
It is a good idea to prepare for interviews even if you’re having doubts about speaking about your achievements. Practice is key and, fortunately, interview questions can be practiced in advance. The key to flawless interviews is preparation. Here are some suggestions you can implement to improve your chances of getting through that interview and impressing your future employers.
Be comfortable with difficult questions
Interviewers are able to ask tough questions mostly because they are trying to elicit information and information, but also in order to help how you can get rid of potentially contentious issues and issues. Take for example the question "Why are you leaving your current role?"
The answer to the question could be due to problems with management, or concerns with work-life balance, etc. No matter the answer, however, the manner the way you frame the answer will indicate your capacity to be a fair and objective observer. Be honest and articulate your responses using as much objectivity can be. This includes removing any emotional responses such as answers based on feelings or sentiments and are not supported by facts.
Other questions to be prepared for are "What made you apply for this position?", "Why should we hire us?", or trick questions like "Why do be able to not take you on?" 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 then follow it up with a short note of the reason or reasons why you chose to respond in a specific way. Next, provide examples or further elaborate. After you’ve clarified your points thoroughly you can go back to your original point.
Similarly, if you are requested to provide a description of your participation in a project or task then you can utilize to describe your involvement in a project or task, you can use the STAR Method, which is often used when responding the selection requirements. When using STAR, you must state an scenario,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken followed by the Result.
It’s all in the body language
Behaving naturally in a difficult situation can be a tall order however, you can practice professional communication. Sit in front of a mirror or ask a friend you trust to ask questions of you and observe your behavior. Are you moving or fidgeting around with a nervousness? Do you seem stiff, standoffish, defensive or reserved in your body language? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions reflect your message you’re trying to make? Do you convey genuineness, honesty, and genuine interest?
Be aware of your strengths and weaknesses
Before the interview, be sure to go over the job description again. Assuming you read the job description and applied the roles and duties listed in it to alter and personalize your resume and other selection documents It is crucial to review the job description in order to accurately present yourself to the interviewer. Be candid and open about your strengths and weaknesses. Being truthful about your strengths will allow the interviewer to see your strengths as a potential client. However, announcing your intention to address your weaknesses will also be relevant.
Prepare questions
Another aspect to consider in the interview is to show genuine interest in the role and in the business. The best person to inquire questions is your interviewer. If you have noticed something intriguing on the resume or if you’ve got any questions not answered through their FAQ or the guide questions (which can be found in the job packet or in their general hiring page About section), raise these after the interview, after your interviewer invites you to ask questions. Some thought-provoking questions you may ask your employer are:
"How can I be an ideal candidate for the task, if offered the chance to be part of your team?"
"Does the company has any major projects going on in the present"
"What are the potential opportunities to advance and further education?"
Be aware of your salary expectations
Salary packages and other benefits are typically advertised along with the position (or within a set of options if applying through SEEK). However, interviewers could be interested in knowing what you’re expecting to earn. A good tip is to provide a range in which you’d like your earnings to be, rather than providing an exact number or a set amount. Be sure to keep the range tight instead of giving the possibility of a large margin. For example, if you expect to make $75,000 a year, a reasonable range would be in the $73,000-$80,000 range or anyplace within the $10,000 range. Be aware of any other benefits and perks also and take these into consideration when you evaluate your salary goals.
These steps to prepare in your pocket is crucial to equip yourself with the ability to tackle the most difficult questions. Be confident, confident, and confident and courageous.
To assist with recruitment-related documents and credentials and for interviews, please contact Perth Resume. Our friendly and highly trained consultants can guide you through the interview preparation phases. Contact us today to receive an complimentary quote or to call us directly to speak with one of our consultants at 1300 093 809.
