Steps to Interview Readiness
A major and intimidating aspect of job hunts is the interview stage. Fear of being interviewed is a natural result of wanting to seek recognition and acceptance from other people and especially your potential employers. While expressing themselves in a positive manner may come naturally to some people however, many are nervous about being asked questions regarding their career or past successes. Perhaps because of modesty, or the discomfort that comes with being asked questions about their personal life interviews have turned out to be one of the most intimidating aspects during the selection process.
This does not have to be the case.
Interviews are the best method for applicants to show that their competencies have been demonstrated, as well as their potential. You’ve been through the first step with your resume passing it through ATS scanners and being shortlisted for an interview. The chance to show and elaborate further on one’s profile, employment history as well as the key skills and abilities is the proverbial entrance into the interview and if you can convince the interviewer that you have what it takes you increase your odds of getting through the next phase of the selection process.
It is a good idea to prepare for interview questions if you’re struggling with doubts about speaking about your achievements. It is important to practice to a successful interview, and luckily, the questions can be practiced ahead of time. The key to flawless interviews is preparation, and here are some helpful tips you can follow 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 in part, to gather information, but also, because they want to see you come out of potentially contentious issues and worries. Take for example the question "Why have you decided to quit your current job?"
The reason for this may be because of managerial issues, or worries about work-life balance. No matter the answer however, the manner in which you phrase your answer will show your ability to be a fair and objective observer. Give a clear and honest explanation of your reasoning in the most objective way is possible. This means eliminating emotional responses like answers that are based purely on feelings or sentiments and do not have any basis in actual facts.
Other important questions to ask include "What made you apply for this job?", "Why should we choose us?", or trick questions like "Why do us not employ you?" The key is to remain calm and plan your thoughts well.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Introduce your idea and then provide a concise reason or summary as to why you chose to respond in a specific way. Then, add instances or elaborate. Once you’ve explained everything thoroughly you can 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, you may employ this method. STAR Method, which is typically used to respond to selection criteria. In using STAR, you must state a context,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken then the final result.
It’s all in the body language
Behaving naturally in a stressful situation may be a challenge but it is possible to try to practice professional communication. Put yourself in front of the mirror or have a trusted companion to ask questions of you and note your mannerisms. Are you moving or fidgeting about nervously? Do you appear rigid, aloof, defensive or shut off in your body language? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions reflect the message you’re trying to make? Do you show genuineness, honesty and genuine concern?
Think about your strengths and your weaknesses.
Prior to your interview, be sure to go over the description of the position. If you have read the job description and then used the roles and responsibilities outlined in the description to make changes to your resume and other selection documents, it is important to look at the job description to clearly present yourself to the interviewer. Be candid and open concerning your abilities and shortcomings. Being truthful about your strengths will allow the interviewer to note your strengths as a potential client. However, announcing your intention to address your weaknesses will also be relevant.
Prepare questions
Another crucial aspect of an interview is showing genuine interest about the job and the company. The best person to ask is the interviewer. If you’ve seen something that’s interesting on the resume or if you have questions not answered by their FAQ page or the guide questions (which are typically found within the job packet or their general hiring page about section) Make sure to bring them up at the end of the interview when the interviewer asks you to pose questions. Some of the questions you could ask your employer include:
"How can I be the most suitable person for the task, if given the chance to be part of your team?"
"Does the company have any major projects on at the moment"
"What are the possibilities to advance and further education?"
Know your salary expectations
Salary packages and other benefits are typically advertised along with the job (or in a variety, when applying via SEEK). However, the interviewer may ask you how much you’re expecting to earn. An important point to remember is to give a range of where you’d like your salary to fall instead of offering an exact number or a set amount. Make sure to keep your limit to a narrow range instead of providing a wide margin. For instance, if expect to make $75,000 a year, an appropriate range would be in the $73,000 to $80,000 or anyplace within the $10,000 range. Also, be aware of other benefits and perks also and take these into consideration when you are evaluating your salary goals.
Having these preparatory steps in your bag is vital for ensuring you are in confidence to answer the toughest questions. Be confident, be self-assured and courageous.
If you need assistance with documents related to recruitment and credentials and for interview preparation, get in touch with Perth Resume. Our professional and friendly consultants can help you with your interview preparation phases. Contact us now for the complimentary quote or call us direct to speak with one of our consultants on 1300 202 475.
