Ace Your Interviews: Preparation Guide
One of the most frightening aspects of job searching is the dreaded interview round. Interview fear is a natural result of wanting to seek acceptance and approval from others in particular from potential employers. While speaking about themselves may come naturally to some people but others feel nervous about being asked questions about their career or past successes. Perhaps out of modesty and the discomfort arising from being asked to answer personal questions The interview process has evolved into one of the most intimidating aspects in the process of hiring.
This does not have to be the scenario.
Interviews are an important way for the applicant to prove their capabilities are, their achievements, and potential. You have already made it through the first step, with your resume making its way through ATS scanners and being shortlisted for an interview. This chance to present and elaborate upon one’s profile, employment history as well as the key skills and knowledge is the aforementioned entrance into the interview and if you can convince the interviewer that you’re a good fit you increase your odds of passing through to the next step in the selection process.
Luckily, you can prepare for interview questions if you’re struggling with concerns about presenting your personal achievements. Training is the key to success, and fortunately, interview questions can be practiced ahead of time. The key to flawless interviews is preparation. Here are some tips that you can implement to improve your chances of nailing the interview and impressing future employers:
Learn to be comfortable around difficult questions.
Interviewers are able to ask tough questions in part, to gain information, but also, since they want to help you get out of potential contentious issues and worries. Take for example the question "Why do you want to leave your current position?"
The answer to this question could be due to managerial issues, or worries about the balance between work and life, etc. Whatever the reason but the way that you express your answer will demonstrate your capacity to be a fair and objective observer. Give a clear and honest explanation of your responses in the most objective way possible. This means removing any emotional responses , such as answers that are based purely on emotions or feelings and are not supported by evidence.
Other questions to be prepared for are "What made you apply for this job?", "Why should us choose to hire you?", or trick questions like "Why should we 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 follow with a brief note of the reason or reasons the reason you reacted in a particular manner. Add details or go into more detail. Once you’ve explained everything thoroughly, go back to the point you made earlier.
If you’re asked to describe your involvement in a particular project or task, you may utilize this method. STAR Method, which is also usually used in responding to criteria for selection. In using STAR the first thing you need to do is write an Situation,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken as well as the results.
It’s all in body language
Being natural in a stressful situation may be difficult However, you can practice professional communication. Place yourself in front of a mirror or ask a trusted friend to ask questions and observe your body language. Are you flitting or shifting around in a tense manner? Do you seem stiff, standoffish, defensive or reserved in your body or speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions consistent with your message you’re trying to convey? Do you display sincerity, authenticity and genuine enthusiasm?
Take a look at your strengths and weaknesses
Before you go to the interview, make sure you review the job description once more. Assuming you read the job description and then used the roles and responsibilities listed within to customize and modify your resume and other selection documents It is crucial to review the job description and how you will package yourself for the interviewer. Be upfront and honest regarding your weaknesses and strengths. Being open about your strengths will allow interviewers to recognize your unique selling points as a prospect. However, announcing your intention to address your weak points will be equally important.
Prepare questions
Another aspect to consider in the interview is showing genuine interest for the position and the business. The best person to approach to ask questions of the person interviewing you is. If you have noticed something intriguing in the job description, or if you have questions that were left unanswered by their FAQ page or the guide questions (which can be found in the job packet or their general hiring page about section) Make sure to bring them up after the interview, when your interviewer asks you to pose questions. Some of the questions you could ask your employer are:
"How can I be an ideal candidate for the jobif given the chance to join members of your staff?"
"Does the company have any major projects in the pipeline at the moment"
"What are the potential opportunities for further development and training?"
Be aware of your salary expectations
Salary packages and other benefits are often advertised with the job (or in a variety, in the case of SEEK). However, the interviewer may inquire about the amount you’re expecting to earn. One important tip is to give a range of where you’d like your pay to fall rather than giving an exact or set number. Be sure to keep the limits to a certain extent instead of allowing a an expansive margin. For example, if you anticipate earning $75,000 per year, a good choice would be anything from the $73,000 to $80,000 range, or anyplace within the $10,000 range. Be aware of any other benefits and perks as well and consider these when you are evaluating your salary goals.
The preparation steps you have in your purse is important to ensure you have the confidence to answer the toughest questions. Be confident, feel confident and be courageous.
For help with the recruitment process, documents and certificates, as well as for the preparation for your interview, get in touch with Perth Resume. Our professional and friendly consultants can guide you through the interview preparation stages. Contact us today for the no-cost quote or to call us directly to speak to one of our consultants on 1300 591 447.
