Interview Readiness Blueprint
Perhaps the most intimidating aspects of job searching is the daunting interview process. It is a normal result of wanting to seek approval and validation from others, especially from your prospective employers. Although expressing their opinions about themselves might be natural for some however, many are nervous about being asked questions about their work or prior accomplishments. Perhaps it is because of modesty or the fear of being asked questions about their personal life Interviews have become one of the most nerve-wracking parts of the hiring process.
This doesn’t have to be the scenario.
Interviews are an important way for the applicant to show that their competencies, achievements, and potentials. You’ve already completed the initial step by submitting your resume to its way through ATS scanners and you being shortlisted for an interview. This is the chance to showcase and elaborate upon the profile of your employer, background, and key skills and experience is the equivalent of getting a foot in the door and if you can convince the interviewer you have what it takes you increase your odds to be selected for the next phase of the selection process.
There is no need to be worried about preparing for interviews in case you’re experiencing apprehensions about talking about your achievements. It is important to practice to a successful interview, and luckily, the questions can be rehearsed before the date. The secret to successful interviews is preparation, and here are some tips that you can apply to boost your chances of aceing that interview and impressing future employers.
Make yourself comfortable when faced with tricky questions
Interviewers ask challenging questions, in part, to elicit information however, also in order to help you get out of potential contentious issues and concerns. Consider for instance the question "Why are you leaving your current position?"
The reason for this could be due to management concerns, or issues with work-life balance, etc. Whatever the reason but the way in which you phrase your answer will show your capacity to be a fair and objective observer. Answer honestly and explain your reasoning in the most objective way is possible. This means eliminating all emotional responses, like answers based on emotions or feelings and are not substantiated by factual evidence.
Other questions to prepare for are "What motivated you to apply for this job?", "Why should us choose to hire us?", or trick questions like "Why do be able to not employ you?" The key is to stay 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 with a brief argument or explanation of why you chose to respond in a specific way. Next, provide examples or further elaborate. Once you’ve explained everything thoroughly the topic, return to your previous point.
In the same way, if you’re asked to describe your involvement in a project or task and you are required to describe your involvement, you could employ this method. STAR Method, which is also usually used in responding to criteria for selection. If you are using STAR, you must state the context,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken, and lastly, the results.
It’s all in the body language
The ability to act naturally in stressful situation may be a tall order However, you can practice professional communication. Place yourself in front of a mirror or have a trusted companion to ask you questions and take note of your actions. Are you shifting or fidgeting around in a tense manner? Do you appear stiff, standoffish, defensive or reserved in your body language? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions consistent with the message you’re trying to make? Do you convey genuineness, honesty and genuine interest?
Take a look at your strengths and weaknesses.
Before you go to the interview, make sure you go over the job description again. Assuming you read the job description and used the roles and responsibilities described in the description to make changes to your resume and other document of selection, it is important to review the job description to honestly prepare yourself for interviewers. Be upfront and honest about your strengths and weaknesses. Being realistic about your strengths can allow the interviewer to notice your selling points as a potential client. However, announcing your intention to improve your weaknesses will also be relevant.
Prepare questions
Another important aspect of the interview is showing genuine enthusiasm for the position and the company. The best person to inquire for questions during the interview is the one you interview. If you’ve noticed something you like within the description of your job, or if you have any questions not answered by their FAQ page or the guide questions (which are usually found in the job packet or their general hiring page about section) Bring them up after the interview when the interviewer encourages you to ask questions. Some of the questions you could ask your employer
"How do I become the most qualified person for this job, should I be given the chance to work with members of your staff?"
"Does the company have any major projects underway at the moment"
"What are the chances for further development and training?"
Know your salary expectations
Benefits and salary packages are usually advertised alongside the job (or as part of a range, in the case of SEEK). However, the interviewer may ask you how much you’re expecting to earn. A good tip is to include a range that you’d like your pay to be based instead of giving an exact number or a set amount. Make sure to keep your limit to a narrow range instead of providing an expansive margin. For example, if you anticipate earning $75,000 per year, a reasonable range would be anywhere in the $73,000 to $80,000 or anyplace within the $10,000 range. Also, be aware of other benefits and perks as well and consider these when you evaluate your salary goals.
The preparation steps you have in your pocket is crucial to equip yourself with the ability to tackle the most difficult questions. Be confident, feel confident and courageous.
For help with the recruitment process, documents and credentials and for interview preparation, get in touch with Perth Resume. Our knowledgeable and professional consultants can help you through your preparatory stages. Contact us today to receive your complimentary quote or contact us directly to speak with one of our experts on 1300 591 447.
