A Guide to Interview Preparation
The most frightening aspect of job hunts is the interview stage. The fear of an interview is a natural consequence of seeking recognition and acceptance from other people particularly from prospective employers. Although talking about oneself may come naturally to some people but others feel nervous about being asked questions about their career or past achievements. Perhaps due to modesty or the anxiety that comes from being asked to answer personal questions The interview process has evolved into among the more intimidating aspects that are required to hire.
It doesn’t have to be the case.
Interviews are a crucial method for applicants to demonstrate their skills as well as their accomplishments and capabilities. It’s been a while since you’ve been through the first step by submitting your resume to the cut through ATS scanners and you being selected for an interview. The chance to show and elaborate upon the profile of your employer, background, and key skills and abilities is the proverbial entrance into the interview when you convince the interviewer that you’re the right candidate that increases your chances to be selected for the next phase of the selection process.
You can, fortunately, prepare for interviews even if you’re having apprehensions about talking about your achievements. Training is the key to success, and fortunately, interview questions can be rehearsed before the date. The key to a flawless interview is preparation, and here are some helpful tips you can apply to boost your chances of getting through that interview and impressing your future employers.
Get comfortable around tricky questions.
Interviewers are able to ask tough questions partially because they wish to gather information however, also because they want to help you get out of potentially contentious topics and concerns. Take for example the question "Why are you leaving your current job?"
The answer to this question may be because of management issues, or concerns with work-life balance, etc. No matter the answer, however, the manner that you formulate your answer will show your ability to be an objective and fair observer. Be honest and articulate your answer with the greatest objectivity possible. This means eliminating all emotional responses, like answers that are based purely on feelings or sentiments that are not supported by factual evidence.
Other questions to consider are "What made you apply for this role?", "Why should be hiring us?", or trick questions like "Why should we not employ you?" The key is to stay calm and plan your thoughts well.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Lead with your point and then provide a concise explanation or a brief summary of the reasons you responded in a certain way. Then, add instances or elaborate. Once you’ve explained everything thoroughly, go back to your previous point.
Also, if required to explain your participation in a task or project, you may use to describe your involvement in a project or task, you can use the STAR Method, which is often used when responding to criteria for selection. When using STAR, you must state the situation,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken, and lastly, the results.
All it is in the body language
Acting naturally in a stressful situation could be a challenge, but you can always try to practice professional communication. Sit in front of a mirror or ask a trusted friend to ask questions of you and observe your body language. Are you flitting or shifting about with anxiety? Do you look intimidating, stiff, defensive or reserved in your body language? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions consistent with what you want to make? Do you show authenticity, openness, and genuine interest?
Consider your strengths and weaknesses
Prior to your interview, you should review the job description again. Assuming that you’ve read the description and applied the roles and responsibilities described in the description to make changes to your resume and other selection documents It is imperative to review the job description in order to accurately package yourself for the interviewer. Be candid and open on your strength and weakness. Being truthful about your strengths will enable interviewers to recognize your unique selling points as a prospect. However, showing your determination to improve your weaknesses will also be important.
Prepare questions
Another important aspect of the interview is showing genuine enthusiasm in the job and within the company. The best person to ask questions is your interviewer. If you noticed something interesting on the resume, or if you have any questions that have not been answered through their FAQ or their guide questions (which are typically found within the job packet or in the general page for hiring About section) Bring them up after the interview when the interviewer encourages you to ask questions. The most interesting questions you could ask your employer are:
"How can I be the best person for the job, should I be given the chance to join the team?"
"Does the company has any major projects going on currently"
"What are the potential opportunities for further development and training?"
Know your salary expectations
Salary packages and other benefits are often advertised with the position (or on a list, in the case of SEEK). However, the interviewer may be interested in knowing what you’re expecting to earn. One important tip is to provide a range in which you’d like your pay to be based instead of giving an exact or fixed number. Make sure to keep your range tight instead of giving the possibility of a large margin. For example, if you expect to make $75,000 a year, a good range would be anywhere in the $73,000 to $80,000 or anywhere within the $10,000-$10,000 range. Be aware of any other benefits and perks too and think about these when you think about your salary goals.
Inputting these steps into your back pocket is essential to ensure you have the ability to tackle the most difficult questions. Be confident, confident, and confident and bold.
For assistance in recruitment-related documents or credentials as well as the preparation for your interview, reach out to Perth Resume. Our friendly and highly trained consultants can help you through your preparatory phases. Contact us now for your complimentary quote or phone us directly for a chat with one of our experts on 1300 202 475.
