A Guide to Interview Preparation
Perhaps the most daunting aspects of job hunting is the daunting interview process. The fear of an interview is a natural result of wanting recognition and acceptance from other people and especially your potential employers. While speaking about themselves may be natural for some, others are apprehensive about being asked questions regarding their professional or previous successes. Perhaps due to modesty or the discomfort that comes with being asked personal questions interviews have turned out to be among the more nerve-wracking parts during the selection process.
This does not have to be the situation.
Interviews are the best way for the applicant to prove their capabilities are, their achievements, and potential. It’s been a while since you’ve been through the first step with your resume passing an appearance on ATS scanners and you being shortlisted for an interview. This opportunity to present and elaborate upon your resume, experience and the most important skills and abilities is the proverbial step to the front when you convince the interviewer you have what it takes that increases your chances of getting through the next step of the selection process.
Luckily, you can prepare for interview questions if you’re struggling with apprehensions about talking about your accomplishments. It is important to practice to a successful interview, and luckily, the questions can be practiced prior to the time. The key to flawless interviews is preparation, and here are some helpful tips you can use to increase your chances of getting through that interview and impressing future employers.
Learn to be comfortable around difficult questions.
Interviewers ask challenging questions, partially because they wish to gain information, but also, in order to help you get out of potentially contentious topics and concerns. For instance, consider the question "Why are you leaving your current job?"
The answer to this question may be because of management concerns, or issues with work-life balance, etc. Whatever the reason however, the manner that you formulate your answer will show your ability to be an objective and fair observer. Respond honestly and explain your answer using as much objectivity possible. This means that you should eliminate any emotional responses such as answers that are based purely on feelings or sentiments and are not substantiated by factual evidence.
Other important questions to ask include "What did you do to get this role?", "Why should we choose the person we chose to hire?", or trick questions like "Why do you not employ you?" The key is not to lose your cool and organize your thoughts in a systematic manner.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Lead with your point and then follow it up with a short note of the reason or reasons the reasons you responded in a certain way. Next, provide instances or elaborate. After you have explained thoroughly then return to your previous point.
Also, if requested to provide a description of your participation in a task or project it is possible to use this method. STAR Method, which is also usually used in responding to criteria for selection. When using STAR, you must state an situation,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken as well as the results.
All it is in the body language
Acting naturally in a stressful environment can be a challenge however, you can practice professional communication. Sit in front of a mirror or ask a friend you trust to ask you questions and take note of your actions. Are you shifting or fidgeting about nervously? Do you look intimidating, stiff, defensive, or closed off in your body and speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions in line with the message you’re trying to convey? Do you show sincerity, authenticity, and genuine interest?
Take a look at your strengths and your weaknesses.
Prior to the interview, you should review the job description once more. In the event that you’ve read the description and then used the roles and responsibilities outlined within to customize and modify your resume and other selection documents It is imperative to think about the job description and how you will package yourself for the interviewer. Be open and honest on your strength and weakness. Being open regarding your strengths will allow interviewers to recognize your strengths as a prospective client. But, indicating your intention to address your weaknesses is just as notable.
Prepare questions
Another crucial aspect of an interview is showing genuine interest about the job and the business. The best person to approach is the interviewer. If you noticed something interesting on the resume or if you have questions that have not been answered by their FAQ page or their guide questions (which are usually found in the job packet or in the general page for hiring About section) Bring them up at the end of the interview, after your interviewer is encouraging you to ask questions. Some thought-provoking questions you may ask your employer include:
"How do I become the best person for the job, should I be given the chance to work alongside you and your colleagues?"
"Does the company has any major projects going on in the present"
"What are the potential opportunities for advancement and further training?"
Know your salary expectations
Other benefits and packages for salary are often advertised with the job (or within a set of options, if applying through SEEK). However, interviewers could want to know what salary you’re expecting to earn. An important point to remember is to include a range that you’d like your pay to be, rather than providing an exact or fixed number. Be sure to keep the range as narrow as possible instead of offering a any wide range. For instance, if anticipate earning $75,000 per year, a sensible range would be anywhere in the $73,000 to $80,000 range, or anywhere within the $10,000-$10,000 range. Be aware of any additional perks and benefits as well and consider these when you consider your salary expectations.
The preparation steps you have in your bag is vital to equip yourself with the capability to handle the toughest questions. Be confident, be self-assured and be courageous.
For assistance in recruitment-related documents and credentials and for the preparation for your interview, contact Perth Resume. Our professional and friendly consultants will be able to help you with your interview preparation phases. Contact us today for an complimentary quote or call us direct to speak with one our consultants on 1300 993 659.
