Prepping Effectively for Interviews
Perhaps the most intimidating aspect of job hunts is the dreaded interview round. Interview fear is a natural consequence of seeking approval and validation from others in particular from potential employers. Although talking about oneself may seem natural to certain people however, many are nervous about being asked questions about their career or past successes. Perhaps it is because of modesty or the discomfort arising from being asked to answer personal questions The interview process has evolved into one of the biggest and most stressful parts that are required to hire.
It doesn’t have to be the situation.
Interviews are the best method for applicants to showcase their abilities have been demonstrated, as well as their potential. You have already completed the initial step by submitting your resume to it through ATS scanners and being selected for an interview. This chance to present and elaborate further on one’s profile, employment history, and key skills and expertise is the proverbial way to get noticed when you convince the interviewer you’re qualified, it boosts your chances of passing through the next step of the selection process.
Luckily, you can prepare for interviews even if you’re having apprehensions about talking about your achievements. Practice is key and, fortunately, interview questions can be practiced ahead of time. The secret to flawless interviews is preparation, and here are some suggestions you can implement to improve your chances at nailing that interview and impressing future employers:
Learn to be comfortable around difficult questions
Interviewers will ask you tough questions, in part, to get information from you and information, but also because they want to see how you can get rid of potentially contentious questions and issues. Consider for instance the question "Why do you want to leave your current position?"
The reason for this could be due to managerial issues, or worries about work-life balance. Whatever the reason, however, the manner the way you frame the answer will indicate your ability to be an objective and fair observer. Answer honestly and explain your reasoning in the most objective way is possible. This means that you should eliminate any emotional responses such as answers based on feelings or emotions and are not substantiated by factual evidence.
Other questions to prepare for are "What motivated you to apply for this job?", "Why should we choose us?", or trick questions like "Why should we not employ you?" The key is to stay calm 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 then follow it up with a short note of the reason or reasons why you responded a certain way. After that, you can add details or go into more detail. After you’ve clarified your points thoroughly the topic, return to your previous point.
Also, if required to explain your participation in a particular project or task, you may use an approach called the STAR Method, which is typically used to respond to criteria for selection. If you are using STAR it is necessary to describe a situation,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken as well as the Result.
The body language
Being natural in a stressful situation may be a tall order however, you can practice professional communication. Place yourself in front of a mirror or ask a friend you trust to ask questions and observe your behavior. Are you fidgeting or shifting about nervously? Do you look stiff, standoffish, defensive or reserved in your body and speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions reflect the message you’re trying to convey? Do you display authenticity, openness and genuine concern?
Be aware of your strengths and weak points.
Prior to the interview, ensure that you review the job description over again. If you have read the job description and used the roles and duties listed in the description to make changes to your resume and other selection documents It is imperative to consider the job description in order to accurately package yourself for the interviewer. Be open and honest about your strengths and weaknesses. Being realistic about your strengths can allow the interviewer to notice your unique selling points as a prospect. However, announcing your intention to address your weaknesses will be just as significant.
Prepare questions
Another key aspect of the interview is showing genuine enthusiasm in the job and within the company. The most appropriate person to ask questions is your interviewer. If you’ve noticed something you like on the resume, or you have concerns that weren’t answered through their FAQ or guide questions (which can be found in the job packet or the general page for hiring about section), raise these at the end of the interview, when your interviewer is encouraging you to ask questions. Some thought-provoking questions you may ask your employer
"How can I be an ideal candidate for the job, if I am given the chance to work with members of your staff?"
"Does the company have any major projects in the pipeline at the moment"
"What are the possibilities to further develop and learn?"
Be aware of your salary expectations
Benefits and salary packages are often advertised with the position (or within a set of options, when applying via SEEK). However, the interviewer may want to know what salary you anticipate earning. An important point to remember is to provide a range in which you’d like your pay to fall rather than giving an exact or fixed number. Keep your limits to a certain extent instead of allowing a a wide margin. For example, if you are expecting to earn $75,000 per year, a sensible choice would be anything from the $73,000 to $80,000 area or anyplace within the $10,000 range. Be aware of any other benefits and perks too and think about these when you evaluate your salary expectations.
The preparation steps you have in your purse is important to ensure you have the readiness to face the toughest questions. Be confident, feel confident, and be bold.
To assist with recruitment-related documents or credentials as well as interview preparation, you may contact Perth Resume. Our knowledgeable and professional consultants can help you with your interview preparation steps. Contact us today to receive a complimentary quote or contact us directly to speak to one of our consultants at 0800 215 100.
