Mastering Interview Readiness
Perhaps the most intimidating aspects of job searching is the dreaded interview round. It is a normal result of wanting approval and validation from others and especially your potential employers. Although talking about oneself may be a natural thing for some, others are apprehensive about being asked questions regarding their professional or previous achievements. Perhaps because of modesty, or the discomfort arising from being asked to answer personal questions interviews have turned out to be an extremely intimidating aspects of the hiring process.
This doesn’t have to be the case.
Interviews are a crucial way for the applicant to prove their capabilities are, their achievements, and potential. You have already completed the initial step and your resume has made it through ATS scanners and your name being selected for an interview. This opportunity to present and elaborate upon one’s profile, employment history as well as key abilities and knowledge is the aforementioned foot in the door when you convince the interviewer you’re qualified you increase your odds of getting through the next phase of the selection process.
There is no need to be worried about preparing for interviews in case you’re experiencing concerns about presenting your personal achievements. Practice is key to a successful interview, and luckily, the questions can be rehearsed prior to the time. The secret to flawless interviews is preparation, and here are some suggestions you can implement to improve your chances of aceing that interview and impressing potential employers.
Get comfortable around tricky questions.
Interviewers will ask you tough questions, partly because they want to gain information however, also because they want to see you come out of potentially contentious questions and worries. For instance, consider the question "Why do you want to leave your current role?"
The answer could be due to management concerns, or issues about work-life balance. Whatever the reason but the way that you formulate the answer will indicate your ability to be a fair and objective observer. Answer honestly and explain your response in the most objective way is possible. This means removing all emotional responses, like responses that are based solely on sentiments or feelings, and are not supported by evidence.
Other questions to prepare for include "What did you do to get this job?", "Why should us choose to hire us?", or trick questions such as "Why should us not choose you?" The key is to remain calm and arrange your thoughts with care.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Introduce your idea and follow up with a short argument or explanation of the reason you reacted in a particular manner. After that, you can add examples or further elaborate. Once you’ve explained everything thoroughly then return to your original point.
Similarly, if you are asked to write about your involvement in a particular project or task, you may utilize the STAR Method, which is typically used to respond to selection criteria. If you are using STAR you will need to write an scenario,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken as well as the Result.
It’s all in body language
Acting naturally in a stressful environment can be a daunting task, but you can always try to practice professional communication. Place yourself in front of a mirror or ask a trusted friend to inquire about your concerns and take note of your actions. Are you fidgeting or shifting about nervously? Are you looking stiff, standoffish, defensive or aloof in your body or speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions in line with the message you’re trying to convey? Do you convey authenticity, openness and genuine concern?
Think about your strengths and weak points.
Before you go to the interview, ensure that you review the job description again. If you have read the job description and utilized the roles and responsibilities described in the description to make changes to your resume as well as other selection documents It is essential to consider the job description and how you will present yourself to the interviewer. Be open and honest regarding your weaknesses and strengths. Being honest regarding your strengths will allow the interviewer to notice your unique selling points as a prospect. However, showing your determination to work on your weaknesses will be just as important.
Prepare questions
Another key aspect of the interview is showing genuine interest for the position and the company. The best person to approach for questions during the interview is the one you interview. If you’ve seen something that’s interesting from the job descriptions or if you’ve got any questions that were left unanswered through their FAQ or guide questions (which are usually found in the job description or their general hiring page About section) You can raise them after the interview when the interviewer is encouraging you to ask questions. The most interesting questions you could ask your employer are:
"How can I be the best person for the job, should I be given the chance to be part of your team?"
"Does the company have any major projects underway at the moment"
"What are the chances to advance and further education?"
Know your salary expectations
Benefits and salary packages are typically advertised along with the position (or in a variety, if applying through SEEK). However, interviewers may still inquire about the amount you expect to earn. A good tip is to include a range that you’d like your pay to fall rather than giving an exact number or a set amount. Try to keep your range as narrow as possible instead of offering a the possibility of a large margin. For instance, if are expecting to earn $75,000 per year, a reasonable range is anywhere between the $73,000 to $80,000 range, or anywhere within the $10,000 range. Be mindful of additional perks and benefits too and think about these when you are evaluating your salary goals.
The preparation steps you have in your back pocket is essential to ensure you have the capability to handle the toughest questions. Be confident, be self-assured and bold.
For assistance in recruitment-related documents and certificates, as well as for the preparation for your interview, reach out to Perth Resume. Our professional and friendly consultants are able to guide you through the interview preparation phases. Contact us now for the complimentary quote or to call us directly to speak with one of our experts on 1300 987 836.
