Optimizing Your Interview Preparation
The most frightening aspect of job hunts 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 come naturally to some people However, some are uncomfortable being asked about their professional or previous accomplishments. Perhaps out of modesty and the discomfort arising from being asked questions about their personal life, the interview has become one of the most intimidating parts during the selection process.
It doesn’t have to be the case.
Interviews are an important means for the candidate to show that their competencies have been demonstrated, as well as their potential. You’ve been through the first step, with your resume making it through ATS scanners, and your name being considered for an interview. This opportunity to present and elaborate upon your resume, experience, and key skills and abilities is the proverbial way to get noticed and if you can convince the interviewer you have what it takes this increases your chances of getting through the next stage of the selection process.
It is a good idea to prepare for interviews even if you’re having concerns about presenting your achievements. Training is the key to success and luckily, interview questions can be practiced before the date. The secret to flawless interviews is preparation. Here are some tips that you can apply to boost your chances of aceing that interview and impressing your future employers:
Make yourself comfortable when faced with tricky questions
Interviewers pose challenging questions in part, to gain information, but also, because they want to see how you can get rid of potentially contentious issues and worries. Consider, for instance, the question "Why do you want to leave your current position?"
The answer to this question may be because of problems with management, or concerns about the balance between work and life, etc. Whatever the reason however, the manner that you formulate your response will signal your capacity to be an objective and fair observer. Be honest and articulate your answer with as much objectivity as is possible. This means that you should eliminate all emotional responses, like answers that are based purely on feelings or emotions and are not supported by evidence.
Other questions to consider include "What motivated you to apply for this role?", "Why should us choose to hire you?", or trick questions like "Why do you not employ you?" The key is to stay calm and organize your thoughts in a systematic manner.
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 note of the reason or reasons why you responded a certain way. After that, you can add examples or further elaborate. After you have explained thoroughly you can go back to your original point.
Also, if asked to describe your involvement in a project or task it is possible to employ this method. STAR Method, which is typically used to respond on selection criteria. When you use STAR the first thing you need to do is write a Situation,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken followed by the results.
All it is in the body language
The ability to act naturally in stressful situation could be a tall order but it is possible to practice professional communication. Sit in front of a mirror or have a trusted companion to ask questions and note your mannerisms. Are you fidgeting or shifting around in a tense manner? Do you seem stiff, standoffish, defensive or aloof in your body language? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions in line with what you want to convey? Do you display authenticity, openness and genuine concern?
Be aware of your strengths and your weaknesses.
Prior to the interview, you should review the job description again. Assuming you read the job description and utilized the roles and duties listed within to customize and modify your resume as well as other selection documents It is crucial to consider the job description in order to accurately package yourself for the interviewer. Be candid and open on your strength and weakness. Being open about your strengths will enable the interviewer to note your strengths as a prospect. However, signalling your intent to address your weaknesses is just as relevant.
Prepare questions
Another crucial aspect of an interview is showing genuine interest in the role and in the company. The best person to inquire questions is your interviewer. If you have noticed something intriguing in the job description, or if you have any questions that were left unanswered on their FAQ page or the 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 your interviewer is encouraging you to ask questions. The most interesting questions you could ask your employer:
"How do I become the most suitable person for the jobif given the opportunity to work with the team?"
"Does the company have any major projects on right now"
"What are the possibilities for further development and training?"
Know your salary expectations
Benefits and salary packages are generally advertised with the job (or in a variety, in the case of SEEK). However, interviewers could ask you how much you anticipate earning. An important point to remember is to provide a range in which you would like your salary to be, rather than providing an exact number or a set amount. Keep your limits to a certain extent instead of allowing a any wide range. For instance, if you expect to make $75,000 a year, a good range is anywhere between the $73,000 to $80,000 area or anywhere within the $10,000-$10,000 range. Consider other perks and benefits in addition to these when you are evaluating your salary expectations.
The preparation steps you have in your back pocket is essential to be prepared with the readiness to face the toughest questions. Be confident, feel confident, and be bold.
To assist with recruitment-related documents or credentials as well as interviews, please reach out to Perth Resume. Our professional and friendly consultants will be able to help you through your preparatory phases. Contact us today for your free quotation or to call us directly to speak with one of our experts on 1300 987 836.
