Mastering Interview Readiness
One of the most frightening aspects of the job search is the daunting interview process. Fear of being interviewed is a natural consequence of seeking approval and validation from others particularly from prospective employers. Although expressing their opinions about themselves might be a natural thing for some but others feel nervous about being asked about their career or past accomplishments. Perhaps out of modesty and the discomfort that comes with being asked questions about their personal life The interview process has evolved into one of the most intimidating parts during the selection process.
This doesn’t have to be the scenario.
Interviews are an important opportunity for applicants to show that their competencies are, their achievements, and potential. It’s been a while since you’ve passed the first step, with your resume making it through ATS scanners, and your name being selected for an interview. This is the chance to showcase and further elaborate on your profile, work history as well as key abilities and experience is the equivalent of getting a step to the front If you can convince the interviewer that you’re the right candidate you increase your odds of passing the next step of the final selection process.
You can, fortunately, prepare for interviews even if you’re having apprehensions about talking about your personal achievements. It is important to practice to a successful interview, and luckily, the questions can be practiced in advance. The key to flawless interviews is preparation, and here are some guidelines you can use to increase your chances of aceing that interview and impressing prospective employers:
Make yourself comfortable when faced with 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 worries. For instance, consider the question "Why do you want to leave your current position?"
The answer to the question could be due to management concerns, or issues with work-life balance, etc. No matter the answer however, the manner that you formulate your answer will demonstrate your capacity to be an objective and fair observer. Answer honestly and explain your reasoning using as much objectivity is possible. This means removing all emotional responses, like answers based on feelings or emotions that are not supported by actual facts.
Other questions to prepare for are "What made you apply for this job?", "Why should we hire your services?", or trick questions like "Why do be able to not employ you?" The key is not to lose your cool and plan your thoughts well.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Start with your statement and follow up with a short note of the reason or reasons why you responded a certain way. Then, add specific examples or provide more details. After you’ve clarified your points thoroughly the topic, return to the point you made earlier.
In the same way, if you’re required to explain your participation in a particular project or task it is possible to use to describe your involvement in a project or task, you can use the STAR Method, which is often used when responding on selection criteria. If you are using STAR it is necessary to describe an scenario,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken then the final result.
It’s all in body language
Acting naturally in a stressful environment can be a daunting task, but you can always try to practice professional communication. Put yourself in front of the mirror or ask a trusted person to ask you questions and observe your behavior. Are you flitting or shifting around in a tense manner? Do you seem uneasy, aggressive, or closed off in your body or speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions consistent with the point you are trying to make? Do you display authenticity, openness and genuine concern?
Think about your strengths and your weaknesses.
Prior to your interview, ensure that you review the job description again. In the event that you’ve read the description and then used the roles and responsibilities listed therein to modify and customise your resume and other selection documents It is imperative to review the job description in order to accurately describe yourself to the interviewer. Be open and honest regarding your weaknesses and strengths. Being realistic about your strengths will allow interviewers to recognize your unique selling points as a prospect. However, signalling your intent to address your weaknesses is just as 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 ask questions is your interviewer. If you have noticed something intriguing in the job description or you have questions not answered through their FAQ or their guide questions (which are usually found in the job packet or their general hiring page about section) Bring them up during the interview, after your interviewer asks you to pose questions. Some thought-provoking questions you may ask your employer:
"How can I be the best person for the jobif given the chance to work with your team?"
"Does the company have any major projects in the pipeline currently"
"What are the potential opportunities to advance and further education?"
Know your salary expectations
The salary package and other benefits are typically advertised along with the position (or on a list, when applying via SEEK). However, interviewers could want to know what salary you are expecting. One important tip is to offer a range within which you would like your salary to fall rather than giving an exact or fixed number. Make sure to keep your range tight instead of giving a wide margin. For instance, if you think you will earn $75,000 in a year, an appropriate choice would be anything from the $73,000-$80,000 range or anything in the range of $10,000. Also, be aware of other perks and benefits also and take these into consideration when you think about your salary goals.
Having these preparatory steps in your purse is important for ensuring you are in readiness to face the toughest questions. Be confident, self-assured and bold.
To assist with recruitment-related documents and credentials , and also for interviews, please get in touch with Perth Resume. Our knowledgeable and professional consultants can assist you in your preparation phases. Contact us today to receive your free quote or contact us directly to speak with one our consultants on 0800 024 129.
