Prepping Effectively for Interviews
Perhaps the most difficult aspects of job searching is the fear of an interview. Interview fear is a natural consequence of seeking acceptance and approval from others and especially your potential employers. Although talking about oneself may seem natural to certain people but others feel nervous about being asked questions regarding their work or prior accomplishments. Perhaps because of modesty, or the fear of being asked to answer personal questions interviews have turned out to be among the more stressful parts of the hiring process.
This doesn’t have to be the scenario.
Interviews are the best opportunity for applicants to showcase their abilities have been demonstrated, as well as their potential. You’ve passed the first step by submitting your resume to an appearance on ATS scanners, and your name being shortlisted for an interview. This chance to present and further elaborate on one’s profile, employment history as well as the key skills and knowledge is the aforementioned foot in the door If you can convince the interviewer that you’re the right candidate, it boosts your chances of passing the next phase of the final selection process.
It is a good idea to prepare for interviews even if you’re having fears about speaking about your accomplishments. Practice is key to a successful interview, and luckily, the questions can be practiced prior to the time. The key to a flawless interview is preparation, and here are some helpful tips you can use to increase your chances of nailing the interview and impressing your future employers:
Get comfortable around tricky questions
Interviewers are able to ask tough questions partly because they want to get information from you, but also, in order to help you navigate your way out of potentially contentious issues and worries. Consider for instance the question "Why are you resigning from your current role?"
The answer may be because of management issues, or concerns regarding work-life balance, for instance. No matter the answer but the way the way you frame the answer will indicate your ability to be a fair and objective observer. Respond honestly and explain your reasoning with as much objectivity as feasible. This means that you should eliminate all emotional responses, like responses based on sentiments or feelings, and are not substantiated by facts.
Other questions to consider include "What made you apply for this position?", "Why should be hiring you?", or trick questions such as "Why do us not employ you?" The key is not to lose your cool and organise your thoughts carefully.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Lead with your point and follow up with a short note of the reason or reasons why you chose to respond in a specific manner. Add examples or further elaborate. Once you’ve thoroughly explained the topic, return to your previous point.
If you’re asked to write about your involvement on a project or task then you can employ this method. STAR Method, which is commonly used to respond on selection criteria. If you are using STAR, you must state the Situation,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken as well as the Result.
The body language
Being natural in a difficult situation can be a challenge however, you can make sure you are practicing professional communication. Put yourself in front of the mirror or ask a trusted person to ask you questions and observe your body language. Are you moving or fidgeting about with anxiety? Do you seem rigid, aloof, defensive, or closed off in your body or speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions match the point you are trying to make? Do you display sincerity, authenticity and genuine enthusiasm?
Take a look at your strengths and weaknesses.
Prior to the interview, you should read the job description again. In the event that you’ve read the description and utilized the roles and responsibilities listed in the description to make changes to your resume and other document of selection It is crucial to think about the job description and how you will package yourself for the interviewer. Be honest and upfront about your strengths and weaknesses. Being open about your strengths will enable interviewers to recognize your strengths as a prospective client. However, announcing your intention to improve your weaknesses is just as important.
Prepare questions
Another important aspect of the interview is to show genuine interest about the job and the company. The best person to ask is the interviewer. If you noticed something interesting within the description of your job or if you have any concerns that weren’t answered through their FAQ or guide questions (which can be found in the job description or the general page for hiring About section) Bring them up at the end of the interview, when your interviewer invites you to ask questions. Some of the questions you could ask your employer include:
"How can I be the most qualified person for this jobif offered the chance to be part of you and your colleagues?"
"Does the company have any major projects in the pipeline currently"
"What are the opportunities to further develop and learn?"
Be aware of your salary expectations
The salary package and other benefits are typically advertised along with the position (or as part of a range, if applying through SEEK). However, interviewers may still want to know what salary you are expecting. One important tip is to give a range of where you would like your salary to fall rather than giving an exact or set number. Keep your range tight instead of giving any wide range. For instance, if anticipate earning $75,000 per year, a sensible range is anywhere between the $73,000-$80,000 range or anywhere within the $10,000 range. Be aware of any other benefits and perks too and think about these when you evaluate your salary goals.
Having these preparatory steps in your pocket is crucial for ensuring you are in capability to handle the toughest questions. Be confident, self-assured, and be bold.
For assistance in recruitment-related documents and credentials and for interview preparation, you may reach out to Perth Resume. Our friendly and highly trained consultants will be able to help you through your preparatory stages. Contact us today for an no-cost quote or call us direct to speak with one our consultants at 1300 591 447.
