Mastering Interview Readiness
The most difficult aspects of job hunting is the fear of an interview. The fear of an interview is a natural consequence of seeking acceptance and approval from others particularly from prospective employers. Although expressing their opinions about themselves might seem natural to certain people but others feel nervous about being asked questions about their careers or their previous achievements. Perhaps because of modesty, or the discomfort arising from being asked personal questions Interviews have become one of the biggest and most intimidating parts during the selection process.
This doesn’t have to be the scenario.
Interviews are a crucial way for the applicant to demonstrate their skills as well as their accomplishments and capabilities. It’s been a while since you’ve been through the first step and your resume has made it through ATS scanners and being considered for an interview. This opportunity to present and further elaborate on the profile of your employer, background and the most important skills and knowledge is the aforementioned foot in the door: if you convince the interviewer that you’re a good fit, it boosts your chances of getting through the next phase of the final selection process.
It is a good idea to prepare for interview questions if you’re struggling with fears about speaking about your personal achievements. Practice is key and, fortunately, interview questions can be rehearsed before the date. The key to flawless interviews is preparation. Here are some suggestions you can use to increase your chances of getting through that interview and impressing future employers:
Get comfortable around tricky questions.
Interviewers will ask you tough questions, in part, to gain information as well as because they want to help you navigate your way out of potentially contentious issues and concerns. Consider, for instance, the question "Why have you decided to quit your current position?"
The answer could be due to managerial issues, or worries with work-life balance, etc. No matter the answer however, the manner the way you frame the answer will indicate your ability to be an objective and fair observer. Give a clear and honest explanation of your answer in the most objective way can be. This includes removing all emotional responses, like answers based on emotions or feelings and do not have any basis in evidence.
Other questions to consider are "What motivated you to apply for this role?", "Why should we hire the person we chose to hire?", or trick questions like "Why should we not take you on?" 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. Begin with your topic and follow up with a short reason or summary as to the reason you reacted in a particular manner. Then, add specific examples or provide more details. After you have explained thoroughly you can go back to your original point.
Similarly, if you are asked to describe your involvement on a project or task, you may utilize an approach called the STAR Method, which is also usually used in responding to selection criteria. If you are using STAR the first thing you need to do is write the context,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken then the final result.
The body language
The ability to act naturally in stressful situation could be a tall order However, you can practice professional communication. Place yourself in front of a mirror or ask a friend you trust to ask questions and take note of your actions. Are you fidgeting or shifting around with a nervousness? Do you appear uneasy, aggressive, or closed off in your body or speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions in line with the message you’re trying to make? Do you convey openness, sincerity and genuine concern?
Take a look at your strengths and weaknesses
Before the interview, be sure to review the job description once more. In the event that you’ve read the description and used the roles and responsibilities described therein to modify and customise your resume and other selection documents It is crucial to consider the job description and how you will present yourself to the interviewer. Be candid and open regarding your weaknesses and strengths. Being truthful about your strengths can allow the interviewer to see your strengths as a potential client. But, indicating your intention to improve your weaknesses is just as notable.
Prepare questions
Another crucial aspect of an interview is showing genuine interest in the role and in the company. The best person to ask questions is your interviewer. If you’ve noticed something you like on the resume, or you have questions not answered by their FAQ page or the guide questions (which typically are found in the job description or the general page for hiring about section) Make sure to bring them up after the interview when the interviewer encourages you to ask questions. A few questions that you can ask your employer are:
"How do I become an ideal candidate for the job, should I be given the chance to work alongside your team?"
"Does the company have any major projects on right now"
"What are the possibilities to advance and further education?"
Know what your salary expectations are.
Other benefits and packages for salary are often advertised with the job (or within a set of options, if applying through SEEK). However, the interviewer may want to know what salary you anticipate earning. One important tip is to include a range that you’d like your pay to be based instead of giving an exact or set number. Keep your range as narrow as possible instead of offering a a wide margin. For instance, if you expect to make $75,000 a year, a sensible range would be in the $73,000 to $80,000 range, or anyplace within the $10,000 range. Consider other perks and benefits as well and consider these when you evaluate your salary goals.
Having these preparatory steps in your bag is vital for ensuring you are in ability to tackle the most difficult questions. Be confident, self-assured and be courageous.
To assist with recruitment-related documents and credentials and for interview preparation, get in touch with Perth Resume. Our knowledgeable and professional consultants will be able to guide you through the interview preparation phases. Contact us today to receive the complimentary quote or to call us directly to speak to one of our consultants at 0800 215 100.
