Ready Yourself for Interviews
Perhaps the most intimidating aspects of the job search is the fear of an interview. The fear of an interview is a natural result of wanting to seek recognition and acceptance from other people particularly from prospective employers. Although talking about oneself may come naturally to some people but others feel nervous about being asked questions regarding their professional or previous accomplishments. Perhaps because of modesty, or the discomfort that comes with being asked questions about their personal life Interviews have become one of the biggest and most intimidating aspects in the process of hiring.
This does not have to be the scenario.
Interviews are a great method for applicants to prove their capabilities have been demonstrated, as well as their potential. You’ve already completed the initial step and your resume has made the cut through ATS scanners and your name being shortlisted for an interview. The chance to show and elaborate on one’s profile, employment history as well as the key skills and knowledge is the aforementioned step to the front If you can convince the interviewer that you’re the right candidate that increases your chances of getting through the next step of the final selection process.
There is no need to be worried about preparing for interviews in case you’re experiencing doubts about speaking about your own achievements. Practice is key and luckily, interview questions can be practiced ahead of time. The key to flawless interviews is preparation, and here are some tips that you can apply to boost your chances of nailing the interview and impressing potential employers.
Get comfortable around tricky questions
Interviewers will ask you tough questions, partly because they want to gain information as well as because they want to see you navigate your way out of potentially contentious questions and issues. Take for example the question "Why are you resigning from your current position?"
The answer could be due to management issues, or concerns about work-life balance. No matter the answer however, the manner in which you phrase your response will signal your ability to be a fair and objective observer. Answer honestly and explain your answer using as much objectivity can be. This includes removing emotional responses like responses based on feelings or emotions and do not have any basis in factual evidence.
Other questions to consider include "What motivated you to apply for this job?", "Why should we choose your services?", or trick questions like "Why do us not hire 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. Introduce your idea and then follow it up with a short argument or explanation of the reason you reacted in a particular way. Next, provide instances or elaborate. Once you’ve explained everything thoroughly the topic, return to your previous point.
If you’re requested to provide a description of your participation in a project or task then you can use to describe your involvement in a project or task, you can use the STAR Method, which is commonly used to respond to selection criteria. When you use STAR you will need to write the Situation,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken followed by the Result.
The body language
Being natural in a stressful situation may be a challenge, but you can always make sure you are practicing professional communication. You can sit in front of a mirror or ask a trusted friend to ask questions and take note of your actions. Are you flitting or shifting around with a nervousness? Do you seem uneasy, aggressive or reserved in your body and speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions consistent with what you want to convey? Do you communicate openness, sincerity, and genuine interest?
Think about your strengths and weaknesses
Before you go to the interview, be sure to review the job description over again. Assuming that you’ve read the description and used the roles and duties listed within to customize and modify your resume as well as other selection documents, it is important to review the job description and how you will present yourself to the interviewer. Be open and honest on your strength and weakness. Being realistic about your strengths will allow the interviewer to see your selling points as a prospective client. However, announcing your intention to work on your weaknesses will be just as notable.
Prepare questions
Another aspect to consider in the interview is showing genuine interest about the job and the company. The best person to ask for questions during the interview is the one you interview. If you’ve seen something that’s interesting on the resume, or if you’ve got any concerns that weren’t answered through their FAQ or the guide questions (which typically are found in the job application or the general page for hiring about section), raise these after the interview, after your interviewer asks you to pose questions. The most interesting questions you could ask your employer include:
"How can I be an ideal candidate for the job, if I am given the opportunity to work with your team?"
"Does the company has any major projects going on at the moment"
"What are the possibilities for advancement and further training?"
Be aware of your salary expectations
The salary package and other benefits are often advertised with the position (or within a set of options in the case of SEEK). However, interviewers could want to know what salary you expect to earn. A good tip is to include a range that you’d like your earnings to be based instead of giving an exact or set number. Make sure to keep your range as narrow as possible instead of offering a an expansive margin. For instance, if you anticipate earning $75,000 per year, a sensible range would be in the $73,000-$80,000 range or anywhere within the $10,000 range. Be aware of any other benefits and perks as well and consider these when you evaluate your salary goals.
Having these preparatory steps in your purse is important to equip yourself with the ability to tackle the most difficult questions. Be confident, feel confident and be courageous.
If you need assistance with documents related to recruitment or credentials as well as interview preparation, contact Perth Resume. Our highly skilled and knowledgeable consultants are able to assist you in your preparation stages. Contact us today for a free quotation or call us direct to speak to one of our consultants on 1300 871 072.
