Mastering Interview Readiness
Perhaps the most intimidating aspects of the job search is the dreaded interview round. It is a normal consequence of seeking recognition and acceptance from other people in particular from potential employers. Although talking about oneself may be natural for some but others feel nervous about being asked questions regarding their professional or previous achievements. Perhaps it is because of modesty or the discomfort arising from being asked to answer personal questions, the interview has become one of the most stressful parts during the selection process.
This doesn’t need to be the case.
Interviews are a great way for the applicant to show that their competencies have been demonstrated, as well as their potential. You have already passed the first step with your resume passing the cut through ATS scanners and your name being selected for an interview. This opportunity to present and further elaborate on your profile, work history as well as the key skills and experience is the equivalent of getting a entrance into the interview: if you convince the interviewer that you’re a good fit this increases your chances of passing the next phase of the final selection process.
Luckily, you can prepare for interviews even if you’re having doubts about speaking about your accomplishments. The practice is essential and luckily, interview questions can be rehearsed ahead of time. The key to a flawless interview is preparation. Here are some guidelines you can follow to boost your chances of nailing the interview and impressing your future employers.
Get comfortable around tricky questions
Interviewers ask challenging questions, in part, to elicit information as well as because they want to help you navigate your way out of potential contentious issues and issues. Consider for instance the question "Why have you decided to quit your current position?"
The answer to the question may be because of management issues, or concerns with work-life balance, etc. No matter the answer however, the manner that you formulate your answer will show your capacity to be a fair and objective observer. Give a clear and honest explanation of your reasoning with the greatest objectivity is possible. This includes removing any emotional responses , such as responses based on feelings or emotions and are not substantiated by facts.
Other questions to prepare for are "What inspired you to apply for this position?", "Why should us choose to hire us?", or trick questions like "Why should you not hire you?" The key is not to lose your cool and organise your thoughts carefully.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Start with your statement and then follow it up with a short explanation or a brief summary of the reasons you responded in a certain way. Then, add instances or elaborate. Once you’ve explained everything thoroughly, go back to your original point.
Similarly, if you are asked to describe your involvement in a project or task and you are required to describe your involvement, you could apply the STAR Method, which is also usually used in responding to criteria for selection. When using STAR the first thing you need to do is write the Situation,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken, and lastly, the final result.
All it is in the body language
The ability to act naturally in difficult situation can be a challenge However, you can practice professional communication. Sit in front of a mirror or have a trusted companion to inquire about your concerns and observe your behavior. Are you fidgeting or shifting about nervously? Do you appear rigid, aloof, defensive or aloof in your body and speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions match the point you are trying to convey? Do you show openness, sincerity, and genuine interest?
Take a look at your strengths and weaknesses
Before you go to the interview, make sure you go over the job description again. Assuming that you’ve read the description and utilized the roles and duties listed in the description to make changes to your resume and other document of selection It is essential to consider the job description to clearly present yourself to the interviewer. Be candid and open regarding your weaknesses and strengths. Being honest about your strengths will allow interviewers to recognize your selling points as a prospective client. But, indicating your intention to work on your weaknesses will be just as notable.
Prepare questions
Another crucial aspect of an interview is to show genuine interest in the job and within the business. The most appropriate person to ask is the interviewer. If you’ve noticed something you like within the description of your job or if you’ve got any questions not answered by their FAQ page or the guide questions (which are usually found in the job packet or in their general hiring page about section) You can raise them after the interview, after your interviewer invites you to ask questions. Some thought-provoking questions you may ask your employer
"How can I be the most suitable person for the job, if I am offered the chance to join you and your colleagues?"
"Does the company has any major projects going on in the present"
"What are the opportunities for advancement and further training?"
Be aware of your salary expectations
Salary packages and other benefits are usually advertised alongside the job (or within a set of options, when applying via SEEK). However, interviewers may still ask you how much you’re expecting to earn. One important tip is to include a range that you’d like your pay to fall rather than giving an exact or fixed number. Be sure to keep the limit to a narrow range instead of providing the possibility of a large margin. For instance, if expect to make $75,000 a year, a good range would be in the $73,000 to $80,000 area or anywhere within the $10,000-$10,000 range. Be mindful of other perks and benefits as well and consider these when you are evaluating your salary expectations.
The preparation steps you have in your purse is important to equip yourself with the confidence to answer the toughest questions. Be confident, be self-assured and bold.
For help with the recruitment process, documents and credentials , and also for interview preparation, you may contact Perth Resume. Our friendly and highly trained consultants can assist you in your preparation stages. Contact us now for an complimentary quote or contact us directly to speak with one our consultants on 08 7223 2328.
