A Guide to Interview Preparation
The most daunting aspects of the job search is the fear of an interview. It is a normal result of wanting recognition and acceptance from other people, especially from your prospective employers. Although talking about oneself may come naturally to some people, others are apprehensive about being asked questions about their careers or their previous successes. Perhaps it is because of modesty or the fear of being asked to answer personal questions Interviews have become one of the biggest and most stressful parts that are required to hire.
This doesn’t need to be the situation.
Interviews are the best method for applicants to showcase their abilities as well as their accomplishments and capabilities. You’ve already been through the first step, with your resume making its way through ATS scanners and your name being shortlisted for an interview. This chance to present and further elaborate on your resume, experience and the most important skills and experience is the equivalent of getting a entrance into the interview: if you convince the interviewer you’re the right candidate that increases your chances of passing to the next step in the selection process.
Luckily, you can prepare for interview questions if you’re struggling with apprehensions about talking about your own achievements. Practice is key and luckily, interview questions can be rehearsed prior to the time. The key to flawless interviews is preparation. Here are some guidelines you can follow to boost your chances of getting through that interview and impressing your future employers:
Learn to be comfortable around difficult questions.
Interviewers pose challenging questions partially because they wish to elicit information, but also, in order to help you navigate your way out of potentially contentious questions and worries. Take for example the question "Why have you decided to quit your current job?"
The answer to the question could be due to problems with management, or concerns about the balance between work and life, etc. Whatever the reason however, the manner the way you frame your response will signal your capacity to be a fair and objective observer. Be honest and articulate your response in the most objective way possible. This includes removing all emotional responses, like answers based on feelings or emotions and do not have any basis in facts.
Other questions to be prepared for include "What made you apply for this role?", "Why should we hire you?", or trick questions such as "Why do us not choose you?" The key is to not lose composure and organize your thoughts in a systematic manner.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Lead with your point and follow up with a short explanation or a brief summary of the reasons you responded in a certain manner. Add examples or further elaborate. After you have explained thoroughly then return to your previous point.
Also, if asked to describe your involvement in a particular project or task then you can apply this method. STAR Method, which is typically used to respond on selection criteria. When you use STAR it is necessary to describe an situation,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken followed by the results.
The body language
The ability to act naturally in stressful situation could be difficult However, you can try to practice professional communication. Sit in front of a mirror or ask a trusted person to ask you questions and take note of your actions. Are you fidgeting or shifting around with a nervousness? Do you seem intimidating, stiff, defensive or aloof in your body language? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions match what you want to convey? Do you convey authenticity, openness and genuine interest?
Be aware of your strengths and your weaknesses.
Prior to your interview, be sure to go over the job description once more. If you have read the job description and used the roles and responsibilities outlined in it to alter and personalize your resume and other documents for selection, it is important to review the job description and how you will package yourself for the interviewer. Be honest and upfront concerning your abilities and shortcomings. Being truthful regarding your strengths will allow the interviewer to notice your strengths as a prospect. However, signalling your intent to work on your weaknesses will also be important.
Prepare questions
Another important aspect of the interview is showing genuine interest in the job and within the business. The best person to ask for questions during the interview is the one you interview. If you noticed something interesting from the job descriptions or if you have questions that have not been answered through their FAQ or their guide questions (which can be found in the job description or the general page for hiring About section) Make sure to bring them up 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 do I become the most qualified person for this job, should I be given the opportunity to work with you and your colleagues?"
"Does the company have any major projects in the pipeline at the moment"
"What are the chances to further develop and learn?"
Know your salary expectations
Salary packages and other benefits are often advertised with the job (or on a list, when applying via SEEK). However, interviewers may still ask you how much you’re expecting to earn. A good tip is to give a range of where you’d like your salary to fall rather than giving an exact or fixed number. Keep your limit to a narrow range instead of providing an expansive margin. If, for instance, you expect to make $75,000 a year, a sensible choice would be anything from the $73,000 to $80,000 range, or anywhere within the $10,000 range. Consider additional perks and benefits too and think about these when you think about your salary expectations.
Inputting these steps into your bag is vital to be prepared with the capability to handle the toughest questions. Be confident, be self-assured and bold.
For help with the recruitment process, documents or credentials as well as the preparation for your interview, reach out to Perth Resume. Our knowledgeable and professional consultants will be able to guide you through the interview preparation steps. Contact us today for a free quote or call us direct to speak to one of our consultants on 0800 215 100.
