Interview Preparation Tactics
The most intimidating aspects of job searching is the dreaded interview round. The fear of an interview is a natural consequence of seeking approval and validation from others in particular from potential employers. Although talking about oneself may be a natural thing for some however, many are nervous about being asked questions about their career or past achievements. Perhaps it is because of modesty or the discomfort arising from being asked questions that are personal to them interviews have turned out to be one of the biggest and most intimidating aspects of the hiring process.
This does not have to be the case.
Interviews are an important opportunity for applicants to show that their competencies have been demonstrated, as well as their potential. You’ve been through the first step, with your resume making it through ATS scanners and you getting a callback. This is the chance to showcase and further elaborate on one’s profile, employment history, and key skills and abilities is the proverbial foot in the door and if you can convince the interviewer that you’re qualified you increase your odds of getting through to the next step in the selection process.
There is no need to be worried about preparing for interviews if you have doubts about speaking about your personal achievements. Practice is key and luckily, interview questions can be rehearsed in advance. The key to a flawless interview is preparation, and here are some tips that you can use to increase your chances at nailing that interview and impressing your future employers:
Be comfortable with difficult questions
Interviewers pose challenging questions partially because they wish to get information from you, but also, because they want to see how you can get rid of potentially contentious issues and issues. For instance, consider the question "Why do you want to leave your current role?"
The reason for this could be due to problems with management, or concerns about the balance between work and life, etc. No matter the answer however, the manner that you formulate your answer will demonstrate your ability to be an objective and fair observer. Give a clear and honest explanation of your responses with as much objectivity as possible. This means eliminating all emotional responses, like answers that are based purely on feelings or sentiments and are not substantiated by actual facts.
Other questions to consider include "What did you do to get this position?", "Why should be hiring your services?", or trick questions like "Why should us not choose 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. Begin with your topic and then follow it up with a short reason or summary as to why you responded a certain way. Add instances or elaborate. After you’ve clarified your points thoroughly the topic, return to your original point.
If you’re required to explain your participation on a project or task then you can employ an approach called the STAR Method, which is commonly used to respond to selection criteria. In using STAR you will need to write a situation,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken then the results.
It’s all in body language
Behaving naturally in a stressful environment can be difficult but it is possible to try to practice professional communication. Put yourself in front of the mirror or ask a trusted friend to inquire about your concerns and observe your body language. Are you shifting or fidgeting about with anxiety? Do you look uneasy, aggressive or aloof in your body language? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions consistent with your message you’re trying to convey? Do you convey sincerity, authenticity and genuine enthusiasm?
Think about your strengths and your weaknesses.
Before the interview, make sure you review the description of the position. Assuming you read the job description and then used the roles and responsibilities outlined in the description to make changes to your resume and other document of selection It is imperative to consider the job description in order to accurately prepare yourself for interviewers. Be honest and upfront regarding your weaknesses and strengths. Being realistic about your strengths will allow interviewers to recognize your strengths as a potential client. However, signalling your intent to improve your weaknesses will also be significant.
Prepare questions
Another important aspect of the interview is showing genuine enthusiasm in the job and within the company. The best person to inquire for questions during the interview is the one you interview. If you noticed something interesting on the resume, or if you have questions not answered through their FAQ or their guide questions (which can be found in the job application or the general page for hiring about section) Bring them up at the end of the interview, after your interviewer asks you to pose questions. A few questions that you can ask your employer
"How can I be the most qualified person for this job, if I am given the opportunity to join the team?"
"Does the company have any major projects underway currently"
"What are the opportunities for further development and training?"
Be aware of your salary expectations
Other benefits and packages for salary are generally advertised with the job (or as part of a range, if applying through SEEK). However, interviewers may still be interested in knowing what you expect to earn. The most important thing to do is offer a range within which you’d like your salary to be based instead of giving an exact or set number. Make sure to keep your limit to a narrow range instead of providing the possibility of a large margin. For instance, if you think you will earn $75,000 in a year, a sensible range is anywhere between the $73,000 to $80,000 area or anyplace within the $10,000 range. Consider other perks and benefits too and think about these when you are evaluating your salary expectations.
Having these preparatory steps in your pocket is crucial to be prepared with the capability to handle the toughest questions. Be confident, confident, and confident and be courageous.
For help with the recruitment process, documents or credentials as well as interviews, please get in touch with Perth Resume. Our knowledgeable and professional consultants can help you through your preparatory steps. Contact us today for your free quote or contact us directly for a chat with one of our consultants at 0800 024 129.
