Mastering Interview Readiness
The most frightening aspects of the job search is the interview stage. It is a normal result of wanting acceptance and approval from others, especially from your prospective employers. While speaking about themselves may seem natural to certain people however, many are nervous about being asked questions regarding their work or prior successes. Perhaps it is because of modesty or the discomfort that comes with being asked to answer personal questions Interviews have become an extremely intimidating parts that are required to hire.
This does not have to be the case.
Interviews are an important method for applicants to demonstrate their skills are, their achievements, and potential. It’s been a while since you’ve been through the first step with your resume passing the cut through ATS scanners, and your name getting a callback. The chance to show and elaborate upon your resume, experience as well as the key skills and expertise is the proverbial entrance into the interview and if you can convince the interviewer that you’re the right candidate, it boosts your chances of getting through the next stage of the selection process.
Luckily, you can prepare for interview questions if you’re struggling with fears about speaking about your accomplishments. Training is the key to success 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 use to increase your chances of getting through that interview and impressing your future employers:
Learn to be comfortable around difficult questions.
Interviewers ask challenging questions, partially because they wish to elicit information, but also, because they want to see how you can get rid of potential contentious issues and concerns. Take for example the question "Why have you decided to quit your current job?"
The answer could be due to management issues, or concerns regarding work-life balance, for instance. Whatever the reason, however, the manner in which you phrase your response will signal your capacity to be a fair and objective observer. Answer honestly and explain your response using as much objectivity is possible. This includes removing any emotional responses such as responses based on emotions or feelings and are not substantiated by facts.
Other important questions to ask are "What motivated you to apply for this role?", "Why should be hiring us?", or trick questions such as "Why should you not choose you?" The key is to not lose composure and arrange your thoughts with care.
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 reason or summary as to why you responded a certain manner. Then, add examples or further elaborate. After you have explained thoroughly the topic, return to the point you made earlier.
Similarly, if you are asked to write about your involvement on a project or task then you can apply this method. STAR Method, which is often used when responding on selection criteria. When using STAR you will need to write a situation,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken, and lastly, the Result.
The body language
The ability to act naturally in difficult situation can be a daunting task, but you can always practice professional communication. You can sit in front of a mirror or ask a trusted friend to inquire about your concerns and observe your behavior. Are you shifting or fidgeting around in a tense manner? Do you seem stiff, standoffish, defensive or shut off in your body or speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions match your message you’re trying to make? Do you display genuineness, honesty and genuine interest?
Be aware of your strengths and weak points.
Prior to your interview, make sure you read the job description once more. If you have read the job description and used the roles and duties listed in it to alter and personalize your resume as well as other selection documents, it is important to consider the job description to honestly present yourself to the interviewer. Be upfront and honest about your strengths and weaknesses. Being honest about your strengths will allow interviewers to recognize your strengths as a potential customer. However, announcing your intention to work on your weak points will be equally significant.
Prepare questions
Another aspect to consider in the interview is showing genuine interest about the job and the business. The best person to ask for questions during the interview is the one you interview. If you’ve seen something that’s interesting on the resume, or you have questions that have not been answered through their FAQ or guide questions (which can be found in the job description or their general hiring page About section) You can raise them during the interview, when your interviewer invites you to ask questions. A few questions that you can ask your employer are:
"How can I be the most suitable person for the jobif given the chance to work with members of your staff?"
"Does the company has any major projects going on right now"
"What are the chances to further develop and learn?"
Know your salary expectations
Benefits and salary packages are generally advertised with the position (or as part of a range, if applying through SEEK). However, interviewers may still ask you how much you anticipate earning. A good tip is to include a range that you’d like your earnings to fall instead of offering an exact number or a set amount. Keep your range as narrow as possible instead of offering a the possibility of a large margin. For example, if you expect to make $75,000 a year, a sensible range would be in the $73,000 to $80,000 range, or anywhere within the $10,000-$10,000 range. Consider other perks and benefits in addition to these when you are evaluating your salary goals.
Having these preparatory steps in your back pocket is essential for ensuring you are in 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 interview preparation, you may contact Perth Resume. Our knowledgeable and professional consultants are able to guide you through the interview preparation phases. Contact us now for a free quotation or call us direct to speak to one of our experts on 1300 871 072.
