Ready Yourself for Interviews
Perhaps the most intimidating aspects of job hunting is the interview stage. Fear of being interviewed is a natural result of wanting acceptance and approval from others particularly from prospective employers. While speaking about themselves may seem natural to certain people however, many are nervous about being asked questions about their career or past accomplishments. Perhaps due to modesty or the discomfort arising from being asked questions that are personal to them interviews have turned out to be one of the biggest and most intimidating aspects of the hiring process.
It doesn’t have to be the case.
Interviews are an important means for the candidate to demonstrate their skills are, their achievements, and potential. You’ve passed the first step with your resume passing its way through ATS scanners and your name being shortlisted for an interview. This is the chance to showcase and elaborate upon the profile of your employer, background, and key skills and experience is the equivalent of getting a entrance into the interview: if you convince the interviewer you have what it takes that increases your chances of passing through the next phase of the final selection process.
You can, fortunately, prepare for interviews if you have apprehensions about talking about your own achievements. Training is the key to success and luckily, interview questions can be rehearsed before the date. The secret to successful interviews is preparation. Here are some helpful tips you can apply to boost your chances at nailing that interview and impressing potential employers.
Make yourself comfortable when faced with tricky questions.
Interviewers are able to ask tough questions partly because they want to elicit information, but also, in order to help you navigate your way out of potentially contentious issues and concerns. Take for example the question "Why have you decided to quit your current job?"
The answer may be because of managerial issues, or worries about work-life balance. Whatever the reason, however, the manner the way you frame your answer will show your capacity to be an objective and fair observer. Answer honestly and explain your reasoning with as much objectivity as feasible. This means eliminating any emotional responses such as responses that are based solely on feelings or emotions and are not supported by facts.
Other questions to be prepared for are "What did you do to get this position?", "Why should we hire the person we chose to hire?", or trick questions like "Why should we not employ you?" The key is to stay calm and plan your thoughts well.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Begin with your topic and follow up with a short note of the reason or reasons the reason you reacted in a particular way. Next, provide instances or elaborate. After you’ve clarified your points thoroughly, go back to the point you made earlier.
Similarly, if you are requested to provide a description of your participation on a project or task it is possible to employ this method. STAR Method, which is commonly used to respond the selection requirements. When using STAR, you must state an Situation,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken, and lastly, the result.
It’s all in body language
Acting naturally in a difficult situation can be difficult but it is possible to try to practice professional communication. Sit in front of a mirror or ask a trusted person to ask questions of you and note your mannerisms. Are you fidgeting or shifting about nervously? Do you appear uneasy, aggressive, or closed off in your body expression? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions match your message you’re trying to convey? Do you communicate authenticity, openness and genuine enthusiasm?
Think about your strengths and weaknesses
Prior to your interview, you should read the job description again. Assuming you read the job description and utilized the roles and responsibilities outlined within to customize and modify your resume and other document of selection, it is important to consider the job description in order to accurately package yourself for the interviewer. Be open and honest on your strength and weakness. Being realistic about your strengths will allow the interviewer to see your selling points as a prospective client. But, indicating your intention to work on your weaknesses will also be notable.
Prepare questions
Another aspect to consider in the interview is showing genuine interest for the position and the company. The best person to inquire is the interviewer. If you noticed something interesting from the job descriptions or if you’ve got any concerns that weren’t answered on their FAQ page or the guide questions (which are usually found in the job description or their general hiring page about section) Bring them up at the conclusion of the interview when the interviewer is encouraging you to ask questions. The most interesting questions you could ask your employer include:
"How can I be an ideal candidate for the job, if I am offered the chance to be part of members of your staff?"
"Does the company have any major projects on currently"
"What are the opportunities to advance and further education?"
Know your salary expectations
Benefits and salary packages are generally advertised with the job (or in a variety in the case of SEEK). However, the interviewer may want to know what salary you’re expecting to earn. The most important thing to do is provide a range in which you’d like your salary to be based instead of giving an exact or fixed number. Keep your range tight instead of giving the possibility of a large margin. For instance, if anticipate earning $75,000 per year, a reasonable range would be anywhere in the $73,000 to $80,000 range, or anywhere within the $10,000-$10,000 range. Be aware of any other benefits and perks also and take these into consideration when you are evaluating your salary expectations.
These steps to prepare in your pocket is crucial to equip yourself with the readiness to face the toughest questions. Be confident, feel confident and courageous.
To assist with recruitment-related documents or credentials as well as interviews, please contact Perth Resume. Our highly skilled and knowledgeable consultants can assist you in your preparation phases. Contact us now for the no-cost quote or call us direct to speak with one of our consultants on 08 7223 2328.
