Mastering Interview Readiness
One of the most daunting aspects of job searching is the interview stage. The fear of an interview is a natural result of wanting to seek acceptance and approval from others and especially your potential employers. While speaking about themselves may seem natural to certain people However, some are uncomfortable being asked about their professional or previous achievements. Perhaps because of modesty, or the anxiety that comes from being asked questions about their personal life Interviews have become one of the biggest and most intimidating parts of the hiring process.
This doesn’t have to be the scenario.
Interviews are an important way for the applicant to showcase their abilities as well as their accomplishments and capabilities. You’ve already completed the initial step with your resume passing the cut through ATS scanners, and your name being considered for an interview. This is the chance to showcase and further elaborate on one’s profile, employment history, and key skills and experience is the equivalent of getting a step to the front If you can convince the interviewer you’re a good fit that increases your chances of passing through the next step of the final selection process.
There is no need to be worried about preparing for interview questions if you’re struggling with apprehensions about talking about your personal achievements. It is important to practice and, fortunately, interview questions can be rehearsed ahead of time. The key to a flawless interview is preparation, and here are some tips that you can follow to boost your chances at nailing that interview and impressing potential employers.
Learn to be comfortable around difficult questions
Interviewers are able to ask tough questions partly because they want to gather information and information, but also since they want to help you get out of potentially contentious topics and issues. Consider for instance the question "Why are you leaving your current job?"
The answer to this question could be due to management concerns, or issues about work-life balance. No matter the answer, however, the manner in which you phrase your answer will demonstrate your ability to be a fair and objective observer. Be honest and articulate your reasoning in the most objective way possible. This means removing all emotional responses, like answers based on emotions or feelings and are not substantiated by actual facts.
Other important questions to ask are "What motivated you to apply for this job?", "Why should we choose the person we chose to hire?", or trick questions such as "Why do we not choose 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. Lead with your point and then follow it up with a short argument or explanation of why you chose to respond in a specific manner. Next, provide specific examples or provide more details. After you have explained thoroughly the topic, return to your original point.
In the same way, if you’re asked to write about your involvement in a task or project then you can apply the STAR Method, which is typically used to respond to criteria for selection. When you use STAR you will need to write a Situation,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken followed by the results.
All it is in the body language
The ability to act naturally in stressful situation could be a challenge however, you can try to practice professional communication. Sit in front of a mirror or ask a trusted friend to ask questions and observe your behavior. Are you moving or fidgeting around with a nervousness? Do you appear uneasy, aggressive or aloof in your body and speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions in line with the point you are trying to make? Do you display sincerity, authenticity and genuine enthusiasm?
Consider your strengths and weak points.
Before the interview, you should review the job description once more. If you have read the job description and utilized the roles and responsibilities described therein to modify and customise your resume and other document of selection It is essential to look at the job description in order to accurately describe yourself to the interviewer. Be upfront and honest on your strength and weakness. Being open about your strengths will enable the interviewer to see your selling points as a potential client. However, announcing your intention to improve your weak points will be equally important.
Prepare questions
Another aspect to consider in the interview is showing genuine interest in the role and in the business. The best person to approach to ask questions of the person interviewing you is. If you’ve seen something that’s interesting within the description of your job, or you have questions not answered through their FAQ or guide questions (which can be found in the job packet or their general hiring page About section) Make sure to bring them up after the interview when the interviewer invites you to ask questions. The most interesting questions you could ask your employer:
"How do I become the best person for the job, if I am given the opportunity to be part of your team?"
"Does the company have any major projects on in the present"
"What are the chances to further develop and learn?"
Know your salary expectations
Other benefits and packages for salary are usually advertised alongside the position (or within a set of options when applying via SEEK). However, interviewers could inquire about the amount you expect to earn. One important tip is to provide a range in which you would like your salary to fall rather than giving an exact or fixed number. Keep your range as narrow as possible instead of offering a a wide margin. If, for instance, you are expecting to earn $75,000 per year, a sensible range would be anywhere in the $73,000-$80,000 range or anywhere within the $10,000-$10,000 range. Be aware of any additional perks and benefits as well and consider these when you evaluate your salary goals.
Having these preparatory steps in your back pocket is essential to equip yourself with the capability to handle the toughest questions. Be confident, self-assured and be courageous.
To assist with recruitment-related documents or credentials as well as interviews, please reach out to Perth Resume. Our professional and friendly consultants can help you through your preparatory stages. Contact us today to receive your free quote or to call us directly to speak to one of our experts on 1300 871 072.
