Prepping Effectively for Interviews
One of the most intimidating aspects of the job search is the fear of an interview. Fear of being interviewed is a natural result of wanting approval and validation from others particularly from prospective employers. While speaking about themselves may seem natural to certain people but others feel nervous about being asked questions regarding their careers or their previous accomplishments. Perhaps out of modesty and the discomfort arising from being asked to answer personal questions interviews have turned out to be among the more nerve-wracking parts in the process of hiring.
This does not have to be the situation.
Interviews are an important way for the applicant to demonstrate their skills, achievements, and potentials. You’ve passed the first step, with your resume making an appearance on ATS scanners and being selected for an interview. This is the chance to showcase and elaborate further on the profile of your employer, background and the most important skills and abilities is the proverbial step to the front and if you can convince the interviewer you’re qualified this increases your chances of passing through the next stage of the selection process.
Luckily, you can prepare for interviews in case you’re experiencing doubts about speaking about your accomplishments. Training is the key to success and, fortunately, interview questions can be practiced prior to the time. The secret to successful interviews is preparation. Here are some helpful tips you can implement to improve your chances at nailing that interview and impressing your future employers:
Learn to be comfortable around difficult questions
Interviewers will ask you tough questions, partially because they wish to gain information and information, but also because they want to help you get out of potentially contentious topics and issues. Take for example the question "Why are you leaving your current job?"
The answer to the question may be because of managerial issues, or worries regarding work-life balance, for instance. Whatever the reason but the way the way you frame your response will signal your capacity to be a fair and objective observer. Give a clear and honest explanation of your response using as much objectivity is possible. This means that you should eliminate all emotional responses, like answers that are based purely on sentiments or feelings, and do not have any basis in actual facts.
Other questions to consider are "What motivated you to apply for this position?", "Why should be hiring us?", or trick questions like "Why should we not employ you?" The key is to not lose composure and plan your thoughts well.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Start with your statement and then follow it up with a short explanation or a brief summary of why you chose to respond in a specific manner. Add specific examples or provide more details. After you have explained thoroughly, go back to your original point.
In the same way, if you’re asked to write about your involvement in a particular project or task, you may employ to describe your involvement in a project or task, you can use the STAR Method, which is typically used to respond to selection criteria. When using STAR, you must state the context,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken followed by the final result.
All it is in the body language
Acting naturally in a difficult situation can be a daunting task However, you can practice professional communication. You can sit in front of a mirror or have a trusted companion to inquire about your concerns and take note of your actions. Are you flitting or shifting about with anxiety? Do you appear intimidating, stiff, defensive or reserved in your body expression? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions reflect your message you’re trying to convey? Do you convey sincerity, authenticity, and genuine interest?
Consider your strengths and your weaknesses.
Prior to the interview, make sure you review the job description once more. Assuming you read the job description and utilized the roles and responsibilities described in the description to make changes to your resume as well as other selection documents It is crucial to look at the job description and how you will prepare yourself for interviewers. Be honest and upfront regarding your weaknesses and strengths. Being realistic about your strengths can allow interviewers to recognize your selling points as a potential customer. But, indicating your intention to work on your weaknesses will also be important.
Prepare questions
Another aspect to consider in the interview is showing genuine interest in the job and within the business. The best person to approach questions is your 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 are typically found within the job application or their general hiring page About section), raise these during the interview when the interviewer invites 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 opportunity to be part of the team?"
"Does the company have any major projects in the pipeline currently"
"What are the potential opportunities for advancement and further training?"
Be aware of your salary expectations
Benefits and salary packages are typically advertised along with the job (or as part of a range, if applying through SEEK). But, interviewers might want to know what salary you expect to earn. The most important thing to do is give a range of where you’d like your salary to be, rather than providing an exact, fixed amount. Keep your limit to a narrow range instead of providing a wide margin. For instance, if you anticipate earning $75,000 per year, a good range is anywhere between the $73,000 to $80,000 or anything in the range of $10,000. Be mindful of other benefits and perks as well and consider these when you evaluate your salary expectations.
Having these preparatory steps in your pocket is crucial to ensure you have the capability to handle the toughest questions. Be confident, self-assured and bold.
To assist with recruitment-related documents and credentials and for interview preparation, reach out to Perth Resume. Our knowledgeable and professional consultants can assist you in your preparation phases. Contact us today for your complimentary quote or call us direct for a chat with one of our consultants on 1300 993 659.
