Mastering Interview Readiness
The most difficult aspects of job searching is the daunting interview process. It is a normal result of wanting acceptance and approval from others particularly from prospective employers. Although talking about oneself may be a natural thing for some however, many are nervous about being asked about their work or prior accomplishments. Perhaps due to modesty or the fear of being asked questions that are personal to them Interviews have become an extremely nerve-wracking parts during the selection process.
This doesn’t need to be the case.
Interviews are a crucial way for the applicant to showcase their abilities have been demonstrated, as well as their potential. You have already made it through the first step with your resume passing its way through ATS scanners, and your name being considered for an interview. This is the chance to showcase and further elaborate on the profile of your employer, background as well as the key skills and knowledge is the aforementioned entrance into the interview: if you convince the interviewer that you have what it takes that increases your chances of passing the next phase of the selection process.
Luckily, you can prepare for interviews in case you’re experiencing apprehensions about talking about your achievements. Training is the key to success and luckily, interview questions can be practiced prior to the time. The key to a flawless interview is preparation, and here are some helpful tips you can apply to boost your chances of aceing that interview and impressing future employers:
Get comfortable around tricky questions
Interviewers ask challenging questions, mostly because they are trying to get information from you and information, but also because they want to see how you can get rid of potentially contentious questions and issues. For instance, consider the question "Why have you decided to quit your current job?"
The answer to the question may be because of management concerns, or issues about the balance between work and life, etc. Whatever the reason but the way that you express your response will signal your ability to be a fair and objective observer. Be honest and articulate your answer with as much objectivity as feasible. This means eliminating all emotional responses, like responses based on feelings or emotions and are not substantiated by facts.
Other questions to be prepared for include "What inspired you to apply for this position?", "Why should us choose to hire us?", or trick questions such as "Why should us not hire you?" The key is to remain calm and organise your thoughts carefully.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Begin with your topic and follow up with a short reason or summary as to why you responded a certain manner. Then, add examples or further elaborate. Once you’ve explained everything thoroughly you can go back to the previous section.
In the same way, if you’re requested to provide a description of your participation in a particular project or task then you can utilize this method. STAR Method, which is typically used to respond on selection criteria. If you are using STAR the first thing you need to do is write the context,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken followed by the Result.
It’s all in body language
Being natural in a stressful situation could be a daunting task However, you can practice professional communication. Place yourself in front of a mirror or ask a trusted friend to ask you questions and observe your behavior. Are you flitting or shifting around with a nervousness? Do you appear rigid, aloof, defensive or aloof in your body expression? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions match your message you’re trying to convey? Do you communicate authenticity, openness, and genuine interest?
Consider your strengths and weak points.
Prior to your interview, be sure to go over the job description over again. Assuming that you’ve read the description and used the roles and responsibilities outlined therein to modify and customise your resume and other documents for selection, it is important to look at the job description and how you will present yourself to the interviewer. Be open and honest regarding your weaknesses and strengths. Being honest about your strengths can allow the interviewer to note your selling points as a prospective client. However, signalling your intent to work on your weak points will be equally significant.
Prepare questions
Another important aspect of the interview is showing genuine interest in the job and within the business. The best person to inquire is the interviewer. If you noticed something interesting on the resume, or if you have any questions that were left unanswered by their FAQ page or their guide questions (which are typically found within the job description or the general page for hiring about section) Make sure to bring them up at the end of the interview when the interviewer encourages you to ask questions. A few questions that you can ask your employer
"How do I become the best person for the job, should I be given the chance to be part of the team?"
"Does the company have any major projects underway currently"
"What are the opportunities to further develop and learn?"
Know your salary expectations
Salary packages and other benefits are typically advertised along with the position (or as part of a range, in the case of SEEK). However, interviewers could inquire about the amount you anticipate earning. An important point to remember is to provide a range in which you’d like your pay to be, rather than providing an exact, fixed amount. Try to keep your range as narrow as possible instead of offering a the possibility of a large margin. For example, if you are expecting to earn $75,000 per year, an appropriate range would be in the $73,000-$80,000 range or anywhere within the $10,000 range. Also, be aware of other benefits and perks as well and consider these when you think about your salary expectations.
Inputting these steps into your purse is important to equip yourself with the readiness to face the toughest questions. Be confident, be self-assured and bold.
For assistance in recruitment-related documents and credentials and for the preparation for your interview, reach out to Perth Resume. Our professional and friendly consultants are able to help you through your preparatory stages. Contact us today for the free quote or phone us directly to speak with one of our consultants on 1300 591 447.
