Prepping Effectively for Interviews
A major and frightening aspects of the job search is the fear of an interview. Fear of being interviewed is a natural consequence of seeking approval and validation from others particularly from prospective employers. While expressing themselves in a positive manner may seem natural to certain people However, some are uncomfortable being asked about their professional or previous accomplishments. Perhaps due to modesty or the discomfort arising from being asked questions that are personal to them, the interview has become one of the most nerve-wracking parts during the selection process.
It doesn’t have to be the scenario.
Interviews are the best means for the candidate to show that their competencies as well as their accomplishments and capabilities. You’ve completed the initial step, with your resume making its way through ATS scanners and you getting a callback. This chance to present and further elaborate on your profile, work history as well as the key skills and expertise is the proverbial entrance into the interview: if you convince the interviewer you’re the right candidate, it boosts your chances to be selected for to the next step in the selection process.
There is no need to be worried about preparing for interviews if you have concerns about presenting your personal achievements. The practice is essential to a successful interview, and luckily, the questions can be rehearsed before the date. The key to flawless interviews is preparation, and here are some helpful tips you can use to increase your chances of aceing that interview and impressing your future employers.
Learn to be comfortable around difficult questions
Interviewers ask challenging questions, in part, to gather information, but also, because they want to help you come out of potentially contentious questions and issues. For instance, consider the question "Why have you decided to quit your current job?"
The answer to the question could be due to management issues, or concerns with work-life balance, etc. No matter the answer but the way that you formulate the answer will indicate your capacity to be a fair and objective observer. Be honest and articulate your responses with the greatest objectivity feasible. This means removing emotional responses like answers that are based purely on feelings or sentiments and are not supported by evidence.
Other questions to be prepared for include "What made you apply for this job?", "Why should us choose to hire you?", or trick questions like "Why should you not employ you?" The key is to stay calm and arrange your thoughts with care.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Start with your statement 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. Once you’ve explained everything thoroughly then return to the point you made earlier.
Also, if asked to describe your involvement in a project or task, you may apply the STAR Method, which is often used when responding on selection criteria. When you use STAR, you must state a situation,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken, and lastly, the results.
The body language
Being natural in a difficult situation can be a challenge, but you can always practice professional communication. Place yourself in front of a mirror or ask a trusted friend to ask you questions and note your mannerisms. Are you flitting or shifting around in a tense manner? Are you looking rigid, aloof, defensive or reserved in your body and speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions consistent with the point you are trying to convey? Do you display openness, sincerity and genuine concern?
Be aware of your strengths and weaknesses
Before the interview, be sure to go over the job description again. In the event that you’ve read the description and utilized the roles and duties listed in it to alter and personalize your resume and other document of selection, it is important to look at the job description to clearly package yourself for the interviewer. Be honest and upfront concerning your abilities and shortcomings. Being truthful about your strengths will enable the interviewer to see your unique selling points as a prospect. However, showing your determination to work on your weaknesses is just as notable.
Prepare questions
Another key aspect of the interview is showing genuine enthusiasm in the role and in the company. The best person to ask questions is your interviewer. If you’ve noticed something you like within the description of your job, or if you’ve got any questions that were left unanswered by their FAQ page or guide questions (which are typically found within the job packet or their general hiring page about section), raise these after the interview when the interviewer invites you to ask questions. Some thought-provoking questions you may ask your employer are:
"How do I become an ideal candidate for the jobif offered the chance to work with your team?"
"Does the company have any major projects in the pipeline in the present"
"What are the opportunities for further development and training?"
Be aware of your salary expectations
The salary package and other benefits are often advertised with the job (or on a list, when applying via SEEK). However, the interviewer may ask you how much you expect to earn. A good tip is to give a range of where you’d like your pay to fall rather than giving an exact or set number. Make sure to keep your limits to a certain extent instead of allowing a a wide margin. If, for instance, you are expecting to earn $75,000 per year, a reasonable range would be in the $73,000 to $80,000 area or anyplace within the $10,000 range. Also, be aware of additional perks and benefits in addition to these when you evaluate your salary goals.
These steps to prepare in your pocket is crucial for ensuring you are in ability to tackle the most difficult questions. Be confident, be self-assured and bold.
For assistance in recruitment-related documents or credentials as well as interview preparation, you may get in touch with Perth Resume. Our professional and friendly consultants will be able to guide you through the interview preparation phases. Contact us now for an complimentary quote or call us direct to speak to one of our consultants on 0800 215 100.
