Prepping Effectively for Interviews
One of the most frightening aspects of job searching is the interview stage. Interview fear is a natural result of wanting to seek approval and validation from others in particular from potential employers. Although talking about oneself may be a natural thing for some however, many are nervous about being asked questions about their career or past accomplishments. Perhaps it is because of modesty or the discomfort arising from being asked personal questions The interview process has evolved into one of the most stressful parts in the process of hiring.
This doesn’t have to be the situation.
Interviews are a great means for the candidate to prove their capabilities are, their achievements, and potential. You have already completed the initial step with your resume passing it through ATS scanners and getting a callback. This opportunity to present and elaborate upon your resume, experience and the most important skills and experience is the equivalent of getting a step to the front: if you convince the interviewer that you have what it takes this increases your chances to be selected for the next stage of the selection process.
There is no need to be worried about preparing for interviews even if you’re having doubts about speaking about your accomplishments. Training is the key to success and, fortunately, interview questions can be rehearsed before the date. The key to a flawless interview is preparation, and here are some helpful tips you can use to increase your chances of aceing that interview and impressing your prospective employers:
Be comfortable with difficult questions
Interviewers are able to ask tough questions partially because they wish to get information from you however, also because they want to see you navigate your way out of potentially contentious topics and worries. For instance, consider the question "Why are you resigning from your current role?"
The answer to the question could be due to managerial issues, or worries about the balance between work and life, etc. No matter the answer but the way in which you phrase your answer will demonstrate your ability to be a fair and objective observer. Be honest and articulate your reasoning with the greatest objectivity possible. This means that you should eliminate all emotional responses, like responses that are based solely on feelings or emotions and are not substantiated by facts.
Other important questions to ask include "What motivated you to apply for this role?", "Why should we choose you?", or trick questions such as "Why do be able to not take you on?" The key is to not lose composure and plan your thoughts well.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Begin with your topic and then follow it up with a short argument or explanation of the reasons you responded in a certain manner. Add details or go into more detail. After you have explained thoroughly, go back to the previous section.
Similarly, if you are asked to describe your involvement in a task or project then you can apply an approach called the STAR Method, which is also usually used in responding to selection criteria. If you are using STAR you will need to write a situation,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken followed by the results.
It’s all in body language
Behaving naturally in a stressful environment can be a daunting task However, you can practice professional communication. Sit in front of a mirror or ask a trusted person to ask you questions and observe your body language. Are you moving or fidgeting about nervously? Do you seem rigid, aloof, defensive or shut off in your body expression? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions in line with what you want to convey? Do you display authenticity, openness and genuine interest?
Think about your strengths and weaknesses.
Before the interview, make sure you review the job description again. If you have read the job description and applied the roles and duties listed therein to modify and customise your resume and other document of selection, it is important to think about the job description in order to accurately package yourself for the interviewer. Be open and honest regarding your weaknesses and strengths. Being open about your strengths will enable the interviewer to notice your unique selling points as a potential customer. However, showing your determination to address your weaknesses will also be notable.
Prepare questions
Another important aspect of the interview is showing genuine interest in the job and within the business. The best person to approach questions is your interviewer. If you’ve seen something that’s interesting in the job description or if you’ve got any concerns that weren’t answered through their FAQ or the guide questions (which are typically found within the job packet or the general page for hiring about section) Bring them up at the end of the interview when the interviewer invites you to ask questions. Some of the questions you could ask your employer:
"How can I be the most qualified person for this task, if given the opportunity to join you and your colleagues?"
"Does the company have any major projects on currently"
"What are the potential opportunities to advance and further education?"
Know your salary expectations
Salary packages and other benefits are often advertised with the position (or in a variety, in the case of SEEK). However, interviewers could inquire about the amount you’re expecting to earn. An important point to remember is to offer a range within which you’d like your pay to be based instead of giving an exact number or a set amount. Try to keep your range tight instead of giving any wide range. For instance, if you anticipate earning $75,000 per year, a good range would be anywhere in the $73,000 to $80,000 or anything in the range of $10,000. Be mindful of additional perks and benefits also and take these into consideration when you evaluate your salary goals.
Inputting these steps into your back pocket is essential to equip yourself with the ability to tackle the most difficult questions. Be confident, feel confident and bold.
To assist with recruitment-related documents and credentials , and also for interview preparation, you may contact Perth Resume. Our friendly and highly trained consultants can assist you in your preparation phases. Contact us today for the complimentary quote or contact us directly to speak to one of our experts on 08 7223 2328.
