A Guide to Interview Preparation
One of the most intimidating aspects of the job search is the daunting interview process. The fear of an interview is a natural result of wanting to seek the approval and support of others and especially your potential employers. Although expressing their opinions about themselves might come naturally to some people However, some are uncomfortable being asked questions regarding their work or prior successes. Perhaps out of modesty and the discomfort arising from being asked questions that are personal to them The interview process has evolved into one of the most stressful parts in the process of hiring.
This does not have to be the situation.
Interviews are a crucial way for the applicant to show that their competencies as well as their accomplishments and capabilities. You have already been through the first step and your resume has made its way through ATS scanners and getting a callback. This opportunity to present and elaborate upon the profile of your employer, background as well as the key skills and abilities is the proverbial foot in the door If you can convince the interviewer you’re a good fit, it boosts your chances of passing the next step of the selection process.
Luckily, you can prepare for interviews if you have apprehensions about talking about your achievements. It is important to practice, and fortunately, interview questions can be practiced prior to the time. The key to flawless interviews is preparation. Here are some helpful tips you can apply to boost your chances of nailing the interview and impressing future employers:
Make yourself comfortable when faced with tricky questions
Interviewers are able to ask tough questions partly because they want to elicit information however, also because they want to help you navigate your way out of potentially contentious topics and concerns. For instance, consider the question "Why are you resigning from your current job?"
The answer to the question could be due to management concerns, or issues regarding work-life balance, for instance. Whatever the reason, however, the manner the way you frame your response will signal your ability to be an objective and fair observer. Answer honestly and explain your response using as much objectivity possible. This means that you should eliminate emotional responses like responses based on feelings or sentiments and do not have any basis in facts.
Other questions to prepare for are "What motivated you to apply for this position?", "Why should us choose to hire your services?", or trick questions like "Why do us not hire 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. Introduce your idea and follow up with a short explanation or a brief summary of why you chose to respond in a specific way. Add details or go into more detail. Once you’ve thoroughly explained, go back to your original point.
Similarly, if you are requested to provide a description of your participation in a task or project it is possible to utilize an approach called the STAR Method, which is typically 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.
All it is in the body language
Being natural in a stressful situation may be a tall order However, you can practice professional communication. Sit in front of a mirror or ask a trusted friend to ask you questions and observe your body language. Are you fidgeting or shifting about with anxiety? Do you appear stiff, standoffish, defensive or shut off in your body expression? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions consistent with the point you are trying to convey? Do you convey authenticity, openness and genuine interest?
Take a look at your strengths and your weaknesses.
Prior to the interview, you should go over the description of the position. If you have read the job description and used the roles and responsibilities listed within to customize and modify your resume as well as other selection documents, it is important to think about the job description in order to accurately describe yourself to the interviewer. Be upfront and honest on your strength and weakness. Being truthful about your strengths can allow the interviewer to note your unique selling points as a potential client. However, showing your determination to work on your weak points will be equally relevant.
Prepare questions
Another aspect to consider in the interview is to show genuine interest for the position and the business. The most appropriate person to ask for questions during the interview is the one you interview. If you’ve seen something that’s interesting within the description of your job, or if you have concerns that weren’t answered through their FAQ or guide questions (which are usually found in the job packet or in their general hiring page About section) You can raise them after the interview when the interviewer is encouraging you to ask questions. The most interesting questions you could ask your employer are:
"How can I be the most qualified person for this job, if I am given the opportunity to work alongside members of your staff?"
"Does the company has any major projects going on currently"
"What are the chances for advancement and further training?"
Be aware of your salary expectations
Other benefits and packages for salary are typically advertised along with the job (or on a list, if applying through SEEK). However, interviewers may still inquire about the amount you anticipate earning. The most important thing to do is offer a range within which you would like your salary to be based instead of giving an exact or fixed number. Keep your limits to a certain extent instead of allowing a a wide margin. For example, if you anticipate earning $75,000 per year, an appropriate range would be anywhere in the $73,000 to $80,000 area or anyplace within the $10,000 range. Also, be aware of additional perks and benefits also and take these into consideration when you are evaluating your salary goals.
The preparation steps you have in your purse is important for ensuring you are in readiness to face the toughest questions. Be confident, self-assured and courageous.
If you need assistance with documents related to recruitment and certificates, as well as for interview preparation, get in touch with Perth Resume. Our professional and friendly consultants are able to assist you in your preparation steps. Contact us today to receive an free quote or to call us directly for a chat with one of our experts on 1300 993 659.
