Strategies for Interview Success
Perhaps the most difficult aspects of job searching is the fear of an interview. It is a normal result of wanting recognition and acceptance from other people, especially from your prospective employers. Although expressing their opinions about themselves might be natural for some however, many are nervous about being asked questions regarding their work or prior accomplishments. Perhaps it is because of modesty or the anxiety that comes from being asked to answer personal questions interviews have turned out to be an extremely intimidating aspects that are required to hire.
This does not have to be the scenario.
Interviews are a great opportunity for applicants to demonstrate their skills are, their achievements, and potential. You have already passed the first step, with your resume making it through ATS scanners and getting a callback. This is the chance to showcase and elaborate further on your resume, experience and the most important skills and knowledge is the aforementioned foot in the door: if you convince the interviewer that you’re the right candidate you increase your odds to be selected for the next step of the final selection process.
There is no need to be worried about preparing for interviews in case you’re experiencing 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 flawless interviews is preparation, and here are some tips that you can implement to improve your chances of nailing the interview and impressing potential employers.
Make yourself comfortable when faced with tricky questions.
Interviewers will ask you tough questions, mostly because they are trying to gather information, but also, in order to help you navigate your way out of potentially contentious issues and worries. Take for example the question "Why have you decided to quit your current job?"
The answer to this question may be because of managerial issues, or worries with work-life balance, etc. No matter the answer but the way the way you frame your response will signal your ability to be an objective and fair observer. Answer honestly and explain your responses with as much objectivity as can be. This means removing all emotional responses, like responses based on sentiments or feelings, and are not substantiated by evidence.
Other questions to prepare for include "What made you apply for this position?", "Why should we hire the person we chose to hire?", or trick questions like "Why should be able to not hire 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. Lead with your point and then follow it up with a short note of the reason or reasons the reasons you responded in a certain way. Add instances or elaborate. Once you’ve explained everything thoroughly the topic, return to your original point.
In the same way, if you’re asked to describe your involvement on a project or task it is possible to use this method. STAR Method, which is often used when responding on selection criteria. When you use STAR, you must state the Situation,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken then the results.
It’s all in the body language
The ability to act naturally in difficult situation can be difficult, but you can always try to practice 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 shifting or fidgeting around in a tense manner? Are you looking rigid, aloof, defensive or reserved in your body or speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions match the point you are trying to make? Do you convey sincerity, authenticity and genuine concern?
Take a look at your strengths and your weaknesses.
Before you go to the interview, be sure to go over the description of the position. Assuming you read the job description and utilized the roles and responsibilities listed in the description to make changes to your resume and other selection documents, it is important to think about the job description to clearly describe yourself to the interviewer. Be honest and upfront on your strength and weakness. Being open about your strengths can allow the interviewer to notice your unique selling points as a prospective client. However, announcing your intention to address your weaknesses is just as notable.
Prepare questions
Another important aspect of the interview is to show genuine interest for the position and the company. The best person to ask for questions during the interview is the one you interview. If you have noticed something intriguing from the job descriptions, or if you have any questions that were left unanswered by their FAQ page or their guide questions (which are typically found within the job packet or the general page for hiring About section) Make sure to bring them up at the end of the interview, after your interviewer is encouraging you to ask questions. A few questions that you can ask your employer:
"How can I be the most suitable person for the jobif given the chance to work with you and your colleagues?"
"Does the company have any major projects in the pipeline at the moment"
"What are the possibilities for further development and training?"
Know what your salary expectations are.
Salary packages and other benefits are usually advertised alongside the job (or in a variety for those applying through SEEK). But, interviewers might inquire about the amount you anticipate earning. An important point to remember is to offer a range within which you’d like your earnings to fall rather than giving an exact or set number. Try to keep your range tight instead of giving any wide range. If, for instance, you are expecting to earn $75,000 per year, a good range would be anywhere in the $73,000 to $80,000 area or anything in the range of $10,000. Be aware of any other benefits and perks in addition to these when you consider your salary goals.
Inputting these steps into your pocket is crucial to be prepared with the ability to tackle the most difficult questions. Be confident, feel confident and be courageous.
If you need assistance with documents related to recruitment and credentials and for interview preparation, you may contact Perth Resume. Our highly skilled and knowledgeable consultants can help you with your interview preparation phases. Contact us today for the no-cost quote or contact us directly to speak with one our consultants at 1300 987 836.
