Interview Preparation Tactics
The most difficult aspects of job searching is the interview stage. Interview fear is a natural consequence of seeking the approval and support of others, especially from your prospective employers. Although talking about oneself may be natural for some, others are apprehensive about being asked about their work or prior achievements. Perhaps because of modesty, or the discomfort that comes with being asked questions about their personal life Interviews have become one of the most nerve-wracking parts during the selection process.
This does not have to be the situation.
Interviews are an important opportunity for applicants to showcase their abilities as well as their accomplishments and capabilities. It’s been a while since you’ve made it through the first step with your resume passing its way through ATS scanners and being considered for an interview. This chance to present and elaborate further on the profile of your employer, background as well as the key skills and experience is the equivalent of getting a step to the front If you can convince the interviewer that you’re the right candidate that increases your chances of getting through the next stage of the selection process.
You can, fortunately, prepare for interviews in case you’re experiencing fears about speaking about your personal achievements. It is important to practice and, fortunately, interview questions can be practiced prior to the time. The secret to successful interviews is preparation. Here are some guidelines you can apply to boost your chances of getting through that interview and impressing potential employers.
Be comfortable with difficult questions
Interviewers pose challenging questions in part, to gather information however, also because they want to help you navigate your way out of potential contentious issues and concerns. Consider for instance the question "Why have you decided to quit your current position?"
The answer to this question could be due to management issues, or concerns regarding work-life balance, for instance. No matter the answer but the way that you formulate your response will signal your capacity to be a fair and objective observer. Be honest and articulate your reasoning in the most objective way possible. This means eliminating any emotional responses such as answers based on feelings or emotions that are not supported by actual facts.
Other questions to prepare for include "What motivated you to apply for this position?", "Why should be hiring your services?", or trick questions like "Why should we not hire you?" The key is not to lose your cool and arrange your thoughts with care.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Start with your statement and follow up with a short note of the reason or reasons why you responded a certain way. Next, provide examples or further elaborate. After you’ve clarified your points thoroughly you can go back to your original point.
If you’re required to explain your participation in a task or project then you can employ the STAR Method, which is commonly used to respond the selection requirements. When using STAR the first thing you need to do is write an scenario,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken then the Result.
The body language
Behaving naturally in a stressful situation could be a challenge however, you can make sure you are practicing professional communication. Put yourself in front of the mirror or ask a trusted person to ask questions of you and observe your body language. Are you flitting or shifting about with anxiety? Do you look stiff, standoffish, defensive or reserved in your body language? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions match the point you are trying to convey? Do you convey genuineness, honesty and genuine concern?
Take a look at your strengths and your weaknesses.
Prior to the interview, be sure to review the job description over again. If you have read the job description and then used the roles and responsibilities listed in it to alter and personalize your resume and other documents for selection It is essential to consider the job description and how you will describe yourself to the interviewer. Be upfront and honest about your strengths and weaknesses. Being realistic about your strengths will enable the interviewer to notice your selling points as a potential client. However, signalling your intent to address your weaknesses will also be relevant.
Prepare questions
Another important aspect of the interview is to show genuine interest in the job and within the business. The most appropriate person to ask for questions during the interview is the one you interview. If you’ve noticed something you like from the job descriptions, or if you’ve got any questions that were left unanswered on their FAQ page or the guide questions (which can be found in the job packet or the general page for hiring about section) Bring them up at the conclusion of the interview, after your interviewer encourages you to ask questions. Some of the questions you could ask your employer
"How do I become the best person for the job, should I be given the chance to work alongside the team?"
"Does the company have any major projects in the pipeline at the moment"
"What are the chances to advance and further education?"
Be aware of your salary expectations
Benefits and salary packages are usually advertised alongside the position (or on a list, if applying through SEEK). However, interviewers could ask you how much you anticipate earning. A good tip is to include a range that you’d like your pay to be, rather than providing an exact or set number. Keep your limits to a certain extent instead of allowing a an expansive margin. For instance, if you anticipate earning $75,000 per year, an appropriate choice would be anything from the $73,000-$80,000 range or anything in the range of $10,000. Be mindful of other perks and benefits as well and consider these when you consider your salary goals.
These steps to prepare in your pocket is crucial to ensure you have the confidence to answer the toughest questions. Be confident, be self-assured and bold.
For assistance in recruitment-related documents or credentials as well as interview preparation, you may reach out to Perth Resume. Our professional and friendly consultants are able to help you through your preparatory stages. Contact us today for the free quotation or to call us directly to speak with one of our experts on 08 7223 2328.
