Optimizing Your Interview Preparation
One of the most frightening aspects of the job search is the dreaded interview round. The fear of an interview is a natural consequence of seeking the approval and support of others particularly from prospective employers. Although talking about oneself may seem natural to certain people However, some are uncomfortable being asked questions about their careers or their previous successes. Perhaps due to modesty or the anxiety that comes from being asked to answer personal questions The interview process has evolved into one of the most stressful parts in the process of hiring.
This does not have to be the case.
Interviews are the best method for applicants to show that their competencies are, their achievements, and potential. You have already made it through the first step, with your resume making the cut through ATS scanners, and your name being considered for an interview. This chance to present and further elaborate on your profile, work history as well as the key skills and abilities is the proverbial step to the front when you convince the interviewer you’re a good fit you increase your odds of getting through the next step of the final selection process.
You can, fortunately, prepare for interviews even if you’re having apprehensions about talking about your personal achievements. Practice is key and luckily, interview questions can be rehearsed prior to the time. The key to flawless interviews is preparation. Here are some tips that you can use to increase your chances of nailing the interview and impressing prospective employers:
Be comfortable with difficult questions.
Interviewers are able to ask tough questions partly because they want to elicit information however, also because they want to see how you can get rid of potentially contentious questions and worries. Consider for instance the question "Why do you want to leave your current position?"
The answer to this question may be because of management concerns, or issues about work-life balance. Whatever the reason but the way in which you phrase the answer will indicate your capacity to be a fair and objective observer. Be honest and articulate your answer with as much objectivity as feasible. This means eliminating any emotional responses , such as answers based on emotions or feelings and are not supported by evidence.
Other important questions to ask are "What motivated you to apply for this job?", "Why should we hire your services?", or trick questions such as "Why should be able to not choose 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. Introduce your idea and then follow it up with a short explanation or a brief summary of the reasons you responded in a certain way. Add specific examples or provide more details. After you have explained thoroughly, go back to the point you made earlier.
In the same way, if you’re requested to provide a description of your participation in a task or project then you can employ an approach called the STAR Method, which is often used when responding to criteria for selection. If you are using STAR you will need to write the situation,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken followed by the final result.
The body language
Acting naturally in a stressful situation may be a tall order, but you can always try to practice professional communication. Sit in front of a mirror or ask a trusted friend to ask questions and note your mannerisms. Are you flitting or shifting about nervously? Are you looking uneasy, aggressive or aloof in your body language? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions consistent with the message you’re trying to convey? Do you display authenticity, openness, and genuine interest?
Take a look at your strengths and weaknesses.
Prior to your interview, be sure to review the job description again. Assuming you read the job description and utilized the roles and responsibilities listed in it to alter and personalize your resume and other document of selection It is imperative to think about the job description and how you will prepare yourself for interviewers. Be upfront and honest about your strengths and weaknesses. Being open about your strengths can allow interviewers to recognize your strengths as a potential customer. However, showing your determination to address your weaknesses will also be relevant.
Prepare questions
Another crucial aspect of an interview is to show genuine interest for the position and the company. The best person to approach is the interviewer. If you’ve noticed something you like within the description of your job, or you have questions not answered on their FAQ page or the guide questions (which are typically found within the job description or the general page for hiring About section) Make sure to bring them up at the end of the interview, when your interviewer encourages you to ask questions. Some thought-provoking questions you may ask your employer
"How can I be the most qualified person for this jobif offered the chance to work with members of your staff?"
"Does the company have any major projects in the pipeline in the present"
"What are the potential opportunities to further develop and learn?"
Know your salary expectations
Benefits and salary packages are generally advertised with the position (or within a set of options, for those applying through SEEK). However, interviewers could inquire about the amount you expect to earn. A good tip is to offer a range within which you’d like your salary to be, rather than providing an exact or set number. Try to keep your limits to a certain extent instead of allowing a any wide range. For instance, if anticipate earning $75,000 per year, a reasonable range is anywhere between the $73,000 to $80,000 range, or anywhere within the $10,000 range. Be aware of any additional perks and benefits also and take these into consideration when you evaluate your salary expectations.
Having these preparatory steps in your back pocket is essential to equip yourself with the ability to tackle the most difficult questions. Be confident, self-assured and bold.
If you need assistance with documents related to recruitment and credentials and for interview preparation, you may reach out to Perth Resume. Our highly skilled and knowledgeable consultants will be able to help you with your interview preparation stages. Contact us today for a complimentary quote or contact us directly for a chat with one of our consultants at 1300 648 974.
