Steps to Interview Readiness
The most difficult aspects of job hunting is the dreaded interview round. Interview fear is a natural result of wanting acceptance and approval from others and especially your potential employers. While speaking about themselves may come naturally to some people, others are apprehensive about being asked about their careers or their previous successes. Perhaps it is because of modesty or the discomfort arising from being asked personal questions Interviews have become an extremely stressful parts in the process of hiring.
This does not have to be the case.
Interviews are a crucial method for applicants to show that their competencies, achievements, and potentials. You’ve made it through the first step by submitting your resume to its way through ATS scanners and being shortlisted for an interview. The chance to show and elaborate on your resume, experience, and key skills and abilities is the proverbial step to the front: if you convince the interviewer you’re a good fit you increase your odds to be selected for the next phase of the selection process.
It is a good idea to prepare for interviews even if you’re having concerns about presenting your personal achievements. It is important to practice, and fortunately, interview questions can be rehearsed prior to the time. The key to flawless interviews is preparation, and here are some helpful tips you can apply to boost your chances of nailing the interview and impressing future employers.
Learn to be comfortable around difficult questions
Interviewers are able to ask tough questions in part, to gather information as well as in order to help you come out of potential contentious issues and worries. Take for example the question "Why do you want to leave your current role?"
The answer to this question may be because of management concerns, or issues about the balance between work and life, etc. No matter the answer but the way that you formulate the answer will indicate your ability to be a fair and objective observer. Answer honestly and explain your reasoning with the greatest objectivity is possible. This means eliminating any emotional responses such as responses based on feelings or sentiments and do not have any basis in facts.
Other questions to consider include "What made you apply for this role?", "Why should we hire us?", or trick questions like "Why do us not hire you?" The key is to stay calm and plan your thoughts well.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Introduce your idea and then provide a concise explanation or a brief summary of why you responded a certain way. Add details or go into more detail. Once you’ve thoroughly explained then return to your original point.
If you’re asked to describe your involvement on a project or task, you may use to describe your involvement in a project or task, you can use the STAR Method, which is commonly used to respond on selection criteria. If you are using STAR it is necessary to describe an Situation,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken then the Result.
It’s all in the body language
The ability to act naturally in difficult situation can be a tall order However, you can try to practice professional communication. Place yourself in front of a mirror or ask a trusted person to inquire about your concerns and observe your behavior. Are you flitting or shifting around in a tense manner? Do you look uneasy, aggressive or aloof in your body and speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions in line with the point you are trying to convey? Do you display authenticity, openness, and genuine interest?
Think about your strengths and weaknesses
Prior to the interview, be sure to review the job description over again. Assuming that you’ve read the description and utilized the roles and responsibilities described within to customize and modify your resume and other documents for selection, it is important to review the job description to clearly describe yourself to the interviewer. Be upfront and honest about your strengths and weaknesses. Being truthful about your strengths will allow interviewers to recognize your unique selling points as a potential customer. However, showing your determination to address your weaknesses is just as significant.
Prepare questions
Another key aspect of the interview is showing genuine enthusiasm about the job and the business. The best person to ask to ask questions of the person interviewing you is. If you’ve seen something that’s interesting from the job descriptions, or if you’ve got any concerns that weren’t answered through their FAQ or guide questions (which can be found in the job description or the general page for hiring About section) You can raise them during the interview, after your interviewer invites you to ask questions. A few questions that you can ask your employer
"How can I be the most qualified person for this task, if offered the chance to join your team?"
"Does the company have any major projects underway at the moment"
"What are the possibilities to advance and further education?"
Be aware of your salary expectations
Salary packages and other benefits are often advertised with the position (or as part of a range, when applying via SEEK). But, interviewers might ask you how much you are expecting. An important point to remember is to provide a range in which you would like your salary to be based instead of giving an exact or fixed number. Make sure to keep your range as narrow as possible instead of offering a any wide range. For instance, if you are expecting to earn $75,000 per year, a reasonable range is anywhere between the $73,000 to $80,000 or anywhere within the $10,000-$10,000 range. Be mindful of other perks and benefits in addition to these when you consider your salary goals.
These steps to prepare in your bag is vital for ensuring you are in confidence to answer the toughest questions. Be confident, feel confident and be courageous.
If you need assistance with documents related to recruitment and credentials and for the preparation for your interview, reach out to Perth Resume. Our professional and friendly consultants will be able to assist you in your preparation stages. Contact us today to receive the free quotation or contact us directly for a chat with one of our consultants at 1300 871 072.
