Strategies for Interview Success
The most intimidating aspects of job hunting is the fear of an interview. Interview fear is a natural consequence of seeking acceptance and approval from others, especially from your prospective employers. While speaking about themselves may be a natural thing for some, others are apprehensive about being asked about their careers or their previous accomplishments. Perhaps out of modesty and the fear of being asked personal questions The interview process has evolved into one of the most intimidating aspects during the selection process.
This does not have to be the scenario.
Interviews are a great opportunity for applicants to showcase their abilities as well as their accomplishments and capabilities. You’ve already made it through the first step, with your resume making an appearance on ATS scanners and your name being considered for an interview. This opportunity to present and further elaborate on one’s profile, employment history, and key skills and expertise is the proverbial foot in the door: if you convince the interviewer you’re the right candidate, it boosts your chances to be selected for the next step of the final selection process.
It is a good idea to prepare for interview questions if you’re struggling with doubts about speaking about your achievements. Training is the key to success and, fortunately, interview questions can be rehearsed before the date. The secret to successful interviews is preparation. Here are some guidelines you can use to increase your chances of aceing that interview and impressing your future employers:
Get comfortable around tricky questions
Interviewers will ask you tough questions, partially because they wish to get information from you, but also, since they want to help you come out of potential contentious issues and worries. Take for example the question "Why have you decided to quit your current role?"
The reason for this could be due to management concerns, or issues regarding work-life balance, for instance. Whatever the reason, however, the manner in which you phrase your response will signal your capacity to be a fair and objective observer. Answer honestly and explain your answer with the greatest objectivity is possible. This means removing any emotional responses , such as answers based on emotions or feelings and are not supported by factual evidence.
Other questions to be prepared for are "What did you do to get this job?", "Why should us choose to hire your services?", or trick questions such as "Why do you not hire you?" The key is to not lose composure and organise your thoughts carefully.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Begin with your topic and then provide a concise note of the reason or reasons the reason you reacted in a particular manner. Next, provide examples or further elaborate. After you’ve clarified your points thoroughly then return to your previous point.
Similarly, if you are asked to describe your involvement on 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 also usually used in responding to selection criteria. When you use STAR, you must state an scenario,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken, and lastly, the final result.
The body language
Acting naturally in a stressful situation may be a tall order however, you can try to practice professional communication. Place yourself in front of a mirror or ask a friend you trust to ask questions of you and take note of your actions. Are you fidgeting or shifting about nervously? Are you looking stiff, standoffish, defensive, or closed off in your body expression? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions match the point you are trying to convey? Do you communicate genuineness, honesty, and genuine interest?
Consider your strengths and your weaknesses.
Before the interview, ensure that you review the description of the position. Assuming that you’ve read the description and then used the roles and responsibilities outlined therein to modify and customise your resume as well as other selection documents It is crucial to think about the job description in order to accurately prepare yourself for interviewers. Be upfront and honest concerning your abilities and shortcomings. Being realistic about your strengths can allow the interviewer to notice your unique selling points as a potential client. However, signalling your intent to improve your weaknesses is just as notable.
Prepare questions
Another aspect to consider in the interview is showing genuine enthusiasm in the job and within the business. The best person to approach to ask questions of the person interviewing you is. If you noticed something interesting within the description of your job or if you’ve got any questions that have not been answered on their FAQ page or the guide questions (which typically are found in the job description or the general page for hiring about section) Make sure to bring them up at the conclusion of the interview, when your interviewer asks you to pose questions. Some of the questions you could ask your employer include:
"How do I become the most qualified person for this job, should I be offered the chance to join members of your staff?"
"Does the company have any major projects underway right now"
"What are the potential opportunities to further develop and learn?"
Know your salary expectations
The salary package and other benefits are usually advertised alongside the position (or on a list, when applying via SEEK). But, interviewers might inquire about the amount you anticipate earning. The most important thing to do is give a range of where you’d like your salary to fall rather than giving an exact, fixed amount. Keep your limit to a narrow range instead of providing any wide range. For instance, if you expect to make $75,000 a year, a sensible range would be in the $73,000 to $80,000 or anyplace within the $10,000 range. Be mindful of other perks and benefits as well and consider these when you consider your salary goals.
Inputting these steps into your pocket is crucial to ensure you have the confidence to answer the toughest questions. Be confident, be self-assured and be courageous.
To assist with recruitment-related documents and credentials , and also for interview preparation, contact Perth Resume. Our highly skilled and knowledgeable consultants can help you with your interview preparation stages. Contact us now for a complimentary quote or contact us directly to speak with one our consultants at 08 7223 2328.
