Prepping Effectively for Interviews
Perhaps the most daunting aspects of job searching is the interview stage. Interview fear is a natural result of wanting to seek approval and validation from others and especially your potential employers. While expressing themselves in a positive manner may be a natural thing for some however, many are nervous about being asked questions regarding their work or prior successes. Perhaps it is because of modesty or the anxiety that comes from being asked questions that are personal to them interviews have turned out to be among the more intimidating parts of the hiring process.
It doesn’t have to be the situation.
Interviews are the best means for the candidate to prove their capabilities have been demonstrated, as well as their potential. You’ve passed the first step by submitting your resume to it through ATS scanners and getting a callback. This is the chance to showcase and further elaborate on your resume, experience, and key skills and experience is the equivalent of getting a foot in the door when you convince the interviewer you’re a good fit, it boosts your chances of passing the next phase of the final selection process.
It is a good idea to prepare for interviews in case you’re experiencing doubts about speaking about your personal achievements. The practice is essential, and fortunately, interview questions can be practiced in advance. The secret to flawless interviews is preparation, and here are some tips that you can implement to improve your chances of nailing the interview and impressing your prospective employers:
Learn to be comfortable around difficult questions
Interviewers ask challenging questions, partially because they wish to gain information as well as in order to help you get out of potentially contentious questions and worries. Consider, for instance, the question "Why have you decided to quit your current position?"
The answer may be because of problems with management, or concerns regarding work-life balance, for instance. No matter the answer but the way in which you phrase your answer will show your ability to be a fair and objective observer. Be honest and articulate your response using as much objectivity can be. This includes removing any emotional responses such as answers based on sentiments or feelings, and do not have any basis in facts.
Other questions to be prepared for include "What made you apply for this role?", "Why should us choose to hire you?", or trick questions like "Why do us not choose you?" The key is not to lose your cool and organize your thoughts in a systematic manner.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Introduce your idea and follow with a brief note of the reason or reasons why you chose to respond in a specific way. Then, add examples or further elaborate. After you’ve clarified your points thoroughly the topic, return to the point you made earlier.
Similarly, if you are required to explain your participation in a 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 the selection requirements. If you are using STAR it is necessary to describe an scenario,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken then the results.
It’s all in the body language
Acting naturally in a stressful environment can be a daunting task However, you can try to practice professional communication. Put yourself in front of the mirror or ask a trusted person to ask questions and note your mannerisms. Are you fidgeting or shifting about nervously? Do you seem intimidating, stiff, defensive 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 show openness, sincerity, and genuine interest?
Be aware of your strengths and weaknesses
Before the interview, ensure that you review the job description again. Assuming you read the job description and then used the roles and responsibilities listed in it to alter and personalize your resume as well as other selection documents It is imperative to look at the job description to honestly prepare yourself for interviewers. Be honest and upfront about your strengths and weaknesses. Being realistic regarding your strengths will allow interviewers to recognize your unique selling points as a prospective client. However, showing your determination to address your weaknesses will also be significant.
Prepare questions
Another aspect to consider in the interview is showing genuine interest for the position and the company. The best person to inquire questions is your interviewer. If you’ve seen something that’s interesting on the resume, or if you’ve got any questions that were left unanswered on their FAQ page or their guide questions (which are typically found within the job packet or in the general page for hiring about section) You can raise them at the end of the interview when the interviewer is encouraging you to ask questions. Some of the questions you could ask your employer
"How can I be the best person for the task, if given the chance to be part of you and your colleagues?"
"Does the company has any major projects going on at the moment"
"What are the chances for advancement and further training?"
Know what your salary expectations are.
Salary packages and other benefits are often advertised with the job (or on a list, for those applying through SEEK). However, interviewers could be interested in knowing what you are expecting. A good tip is to include a range that you’d like your pay to fall instead of offering an exact or set number. Be sure to keep the range as narrow as possible instead of offering a a wide margin. For example, if you expect to make $75,000 a year, a good range is anywhere between the $73,000-$80,000 range or anyplace within the $10,000 range. Be mindful of other benefits and perks also and take these into consideration when you evaluate your salary goals.
Inputting these steps into your bag is vital to equip yourself with the confidence to answer the toughest questions. Be confident, self-assured, and be bold.
If you need assistance with documents related to recruitment and certificates, as well as for interviews, please reach out to Perth Resume. Our professional and friendly consultants are able to guide you through the interview preparation phases. Contact us today for an free quotation or phone us directly for a chat with one of our consultants at 1300 871 072.
