Ready Yourself for Interviews
Perhaps the most intimidating aspect of job hunts is the daunting interview process. Interview fear is a natural result of wanting recognition and acceptance from other people in particular from potential employers. While speaking about themselves may be a natural thing for some, others are apprehensive about being asked about their careers or their previous achievements. Perhaps it is because of modesty or the discomfort that comes with being asked personal questions Interviews have become one of the most nerve-wracking parts during the selection process.
This doesn’t have to be the case.
Interviews are a crucial opportunity for applicants to show that their competencies are, their achievements, and potential. You have already completed the initial step by submitting your resume to it through ATS scanners, and your name being shortlisted for an interview. This opportunity to present and further elaborate on one’s profile, employment history as well as the key skills and abilities is the proverbial step to the front when you convince the interviewer you have what it takes you increase your odds of passing the next stage of the final selection process.
It is a good idea to prepare for interviews if you have concerns about presenting your personal achievements. Training is the key to success, and fortunately, interview questions can be rehearsed prior to the time. The secret to successful interviews is preparation. Here are some tips that you can use to increase your chances of nailing the interview and impressing your potential employers.
Be comfortable with difficult questions.
Interviewers are able to ask tough questions mostly because they are trying to elicit information as well as because they want to help you navigate your way out of potentially contentious issues and issues. For instance, consider the question "Why have you decided to quit your current role?"
The answer to the question may be because of management issues, or concerns about the balance between work and life, etc. No matter the answer but the way the way you frame the answer will indicate your capacity to be a fair and objective observer. Give a clear and honest explanation of your response using as much objectivity is possible. This means eliminating any emotional responses such as answers that are based purely on emotions or feelings that are not supported by facts.
Other important questions to ask are "What motivated you to apply for this position?", "Why should be hiring your services?", or trick questions such as "Why should be able to not take you on?" The key is not to lose your cool and plan your thoughts well.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Begin with your topic and then follow it up with a short note of the reason or reasons the reasons you responded in a certain way. Add specific examples or provide more details. After you’ve clarified your points thoroughly the topic, return to the point you made earlier.
Similarly, if you are asked to write about your involvement in a project or task it is possible to employ to describe your involvement in a project or task, you can use the STAR Method, which is also usually used in responding the selection requirements. In using STAR the first thing you need to do is write a scenario,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken as well as the result.
It’s all in body language
Behaving naturally in a stressful environment can be a tall order but it is possible to make sure you are practicing professional communication. Sit in front of a mirror or have a trusted companion to ask questions of you and note your mannerisms. Are you moving or fidgeting around in a tense manner? Do you seem stiff, standoffish, defensive, or closed off in your body or speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions reflect your message you’re trying to convey? Do you show authenticity, openness and genuine enthusiasm?
Think about your strengths and weak points.
Before you go to the interview, make sure you go over the job description over again. Assuming that you’ve read the description and applied the roles and responsibilities described therein to modify and customise your resume as well as other selection documents, it is important to think about the job description to clearly present yourself to the interviewer. Be upfront and honest concerning your abilities and shortcomings. Being truthful regarding your strengths will allow the interviewer to notice your selling points as a potential customer. However, announcing your intention to improve your weaknesses is just as notable.
Prepare questions
Another crucial aspect of an interview is showing genuine interest for the position and the company. The best person to inquire for questions during the interview is the one you interview. If you’ve seen something that’s interesting on the resume, or if you have questions not answered by their FAQ page or the guide questions (which are typically found within the job description or their general hiring page About section) You can raise them at the conclusion of the interview, when your interviewer encourages you to ask questions. Some of the questions you could ask your employer are:
"How do I become the best person for the job, if I am given the opportunity to be part of the team?"
"Does the company have any major projects in the pipeline right now"
"What are the opportunities for further development and training?"
Know your salary expectations
Other benefits and packages for salary are typically advertised along with the position (or on a list, in the case of SEEK). However, the interviewer may want to know what salary you expect to earn. A good tip is to give a range of where you’d like your pay to be, rather than providing an exact number or a set amount. Keep your range tight instead of giving the possibility of a large margin. If, for instance, you anticipate earning $75,000 per year, a reasonable range is anywhere between the $73,000 to $80,000 area or anything in the range of $10,000. Also, be aware of other perks and benefits too and think about these when you are evaluating your salary expectations.
Inputting these steps into your bag is vital to equip yourself with the confidence to answer the toughest questions. Be confident, feel confident and bold.
If you need assistance with documents related to recruitment and credentials and for interviews, please reach out to Perth Resume. Our friendly and highly trained consultants can help you through your preparatory phases. Contact us today to receive a complimentary quote or contact us directly to speak to one of our consultants on 1300 871 072.
