Ace Your Interviews: Preparation Guide
The most difficult aspects of the job search is the interview stage. Fear of being interviewed is a natural result of wanting acceptance and approval from others and especially your potential employers. While speaking about themselves may be natural for some however, many are nervous about being asked questions regarding their work or prior accomplishments. Perhaps it is because of modesty or the discomfort that comes with being asked to answer personal questions, the interview has become one of the biggest and most stressful parts during the selection process.
It doesn’t have to be the situation.
Interviews are the best way for the applicant to prove their capabilities as well as their accomplishments and capabilities. You’ve already been through the first step by submitting your resume to the cut through ATS scanners and your name being shortlisted for an interview. This opportunity to present and elaborate upon one’s profile, employment history as well as key abilities and experience is the equivalent of getting a foot in the door If you can convince the interviewer you’re a good fit this increases your chances to be selected for the next step of the selection process.
You can, fortunately, prepare for interviews even if you’re having fears about speaking about your own achievements. Training is the key to success, and fortunately, interview questions can be rehearsed before the date. The secret to successful interviews is preparation. Here are some guidelines you can follow to boost your chances of nailing the interview and impressing your prospective employers:
Learn to be comfortable around difficult questions
Interviewers will ask you tough questions, partly because they want to elicit information however, also because they want to see you navigate your way out of potentially contentious questions and issues. For instance, consider the question "Why have you decided to quit 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 ability to be a fair and objective observer. Respond honestly and explain your responses with the greatest objectivity is possible. This includes removing emotional responses like answers that are based purely on sentiments or feelings, and are not supported by factual evidence.
Other questions to prepare for are "What made you apply for this position?", "Why should us choose to hire us?", or trick questions such as "Why do we not choose 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. Begin with your topic and follow with a brief argument or explanation of why you chose to respond in a specific way. Add details or go into more detail. After you’ve clarified your points thoroughly then return to the point you made earlier.
Also, if asked to describe your involvement in a particular project or task it is possible to employ to describe your involvement in a project or task, you can use the STAR Method, which is commonly used to respond the selection requirements. If you are using STAR, you must state the scenario,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken, and lastly, the result.
It’s all in body language
The ability to act naturally in difficult situation can be a challenge however, you can learn to communicate professionally. You can sit in front of a mirror or ask a trusted friend to ask questions and take note of your actions. Are you fidgeting or shifting about with anxiety? Do you appear uneasy, aggressive or reserved in your body language? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions match the message you’re trying to make? Do you display sincerity, authenticity, and genuine interest?
Think about your strengths and weaknesses
Prior to your interview, you should go over the description of the position. In the event that you’ve read the description and utilized the roles and responsibilities described in it to alter and personalize your resume and other selection documents, it is important to review the job description to honestly prepare yourself for interviewers. Be honest and upfront about your strengths and weaknesses. Being honest about your strengths will allow the interviewer to note your strengths as a prospect. However, showing your determination to address your weaknesses will also be significant.
Prepare questions
Another important aspect of the interview is to show genuine interest in the job and within the company. The best person to approach to ask questions of the person interviewing you is. If you’ve noticed something you like within the description of your job or if you’ve got any questions that have not been answered by their FAQ page or guide questions (which typically are found in the job packet or in the general page for hiring About section) Bring them up at the end of the interview, when your interviewer encourages you to ask questions. Some of the questions you could ask your employer
"How can I be an ideal candidate for the job, should I be given the chance to be part of members of your staff?"
"Does the company have any major projects in the pipeline at the moment"
"What are the possibilities for further development and training?"
Know what your salary expectations are.
Other benefits and packages for salary are usually advertised alongside the job (or on a list, if applying through SEEK). However, interviewers may still be interested in knowing what you expect to earn. One important tip is to offer a range within which you’d like your pay to fall instead of offering an exact or set number. Keep your range as narrow as possible instead of offering a a wide margin. For example, if you expect to make $75,000 a year, a reasonable range would be anywhere in the $73,000 to $80,000 area or anyplace within the $10,000 range. Be mindful of other perks and benefits in addition to these when you evaluate your salary expectations.
Having these preparatory steps in your pocket is crucial to ensure you have the ability to tackle the most difficult questions. Be confident, confident, and confident and bold.
To assist with recruitment-related documents or credentials as well as interview preparation, you may contact Perth Resume. Our highly skilled and knowledgeable consultants are able to guide you through the interview preparation phases. Contact us now for a complimentary quote or to call us directly to speak with one of our experts on 1300 202 475.
