Optimizing Your Interview Preparation
Perhaps the most difficult aspects of the job search is the daunting interview process. It is a normal result of wanting to seek the approval and support of others in particular from potential employers. Although talking about oneself may come naturally to some people, others are apprehensive about being asked about their professional or previous successes. Perhaps out of modesty and the discomfort that comes with being asked questions about their personal life Interviews have become among the more intimidating parts that are required to hire.
This doesn’t have to be the scenario.
Interviews are an important way for the applicant to demonstrate their skills are, their achievements, and potential. You’ve already made it through the first step with your resume passing it through ATS scanners and getting a callback. This chance to present and elaborate upon your profile, work history as well as key abilities and expertise is the proverbial way to get noticed: if you convince the interviewer you’re qualified that increases your chances to be selected for the next stage of the final selection process.
There is no need to be worried about preparing for interviews if you have apprehensions about talking about your accomplishments. Practice is key and luckily, interview questions can be practiced before the date. The secret to successful interviews is preparation, and here are some suggestions you can use to increase your chances of getting through that interview and impressing future employers.
Get comfortable around tricky questions.
Interviewers pose challenging questions partly because they want to gather information however, also in order to help how you can get rid of potential contentious issues and concerns. Take for example the question "Why are you resigning from your current role?"
The answer to this question may be because of management issues, or concerns about the balance between work and life, etc. No matter the answer but the way that you formulate your response will signal your capacity to be a fair and objective observer. Give a clear and honest explanation of your answer using as much objectivity feasible. This means eliminating all emotional responses, like responses that are based solely on feelings or emotions and are not supported by evidence.
Other questions to consider include "What made you apply for this position?", "Why should be hiring the person we chose to hire?", or trick questions such as "Why do us 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. Lead with your point and follow with a brief note of the reason or reasons why you responded a certain way. Add instances or elaborate. Once you’ve thoroughly explained the topic, return to your original point.
In the same way, if you’re required to explain your participation in a task or project then you can use the STAR Method, which is commonly used to respond to selection criteria. In using STAR it is necessary to describe an context,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken followed by the Result.
The body language
Acting naturally in a stressful situation may be a challenge however, you can make sure you are practicing professional communication. You can sit in front of a mirror or ask a trusted person to ask questions of you and observe your body language. Are you flitting or shifting around in a tense manner? Do you appear uneasy, aggressive or aloof in your body or speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions reflect the point you are trying to convey? Do you display sincerity, authenticity and genuine concern?
Take a look at your strengths and weaknesses
Before the interview, ensure that you go over the job description over again. Assuming you read the job description and used the roles and responsibilities outlined within to customize and modify your resume as well as other selection documents It is essential to review the job description to clearly prepare yourself for interviewers. Be candid and open concerning your abilities and shortcomings. Being truthful regarding your strengths will allow the interviewer to notice your unique selling points as a potential customer. But, indicating your intention to address your weaknesses is just as relevant.
Prepare questions
Another crucial aspect of an interview is to show genuine interest in the role and in the company. The best 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 any questions that were left unanswered through their FAQ or their guide questions (which are usually found in the job packet or their general hiring page about section) Bring them up during the interview, when your interviewer invites you to ask questions. Some of the questions you could ask your employer:
"How do I become an ideal candidate for the task, if offered the chance to work alongside members of your staff?"
"Does the company have any major projects in the pipeline currently"
"What are the possibilities to further develop and learn?"
Know your salary expectations
Salary packages and other benefits are usually advertised alongside the job (or as part of a range, if applying through SEEK). However, the interviewer may be interested in knowing what you are expecting. An important point to remember is to provide a range in which you’d like your earnings to be, rather than providing an exact, fixed amount. Be sure to keep the limit to a narrow range instead of providing the possibility of a large margin. For instance, if you are expecting to earn $75,000 per year, an appropriate choice would be anything from the $73,000 to $80,000 area or anyplace within the $10,000 range. Consider other benefits and perks in addition to these when you consider your salary goals.
The preparation steps you have in your pocket is crucial for ensuring you are in capability to handle the toughest questions. Be confident, self-assured and bold.
For help with the recruitment process, documents and credentials , and also for the preparation for your interview, get in touch with Perth Resume. Our professional and friendly consultants are able to assist you in your preparation phases. Contact us today to receive the complimentary quote or phone us directly to speak with one our experts on 1300 093 809.
