A Guide to Interview Preparation
The most frightening aspect of job hunts is the fear of an interview. Fear of being interviewed is a natural result of wanting to seek acceptance and approval from others particularly from prospective employers. While speaking about themselves may come naturally to some people However, some are uncomfortable being asked questions about their work or prior successes. Perhaps because of modesty, or the discomfort arising from being asked questions about their personal life, the interview has become one of the most nerve-wracking parts that are required to hire.
This doesn’t have to be the scenario.
Interviews are a great method for applicants to show that their competencies as well as their accomplishments and capabilities. You’ve made it through the first step by submitting your resume to the cut through ATS scanners and your name being considered for an interview. This is the chance to showcase and further elaborate on the profile of your employer, background, and key skills and experience is the equivalent of getting a entrance into the interview and if you can convince the interviewer you’re a good fit that increases your chances to be selected for to the next step in the selection process.
Luckily, you can prepare for interviews even if you’re having apprehensions about talking about your own achievements. Practice is key and luckily, interview questions can be rehearsed in advance. The key to a flawless interview is preparation. Here are some suggestions you can use to increase your chances of nailing the interview and impressing your future employers.
Learn to be comfortable around difficult questions.
Interviewers pose challenging questions partly because they want to get information from you and information, but also because they want to help how you can get rid of potential contentious issues and concerns. For instance, consider the question "Why do you want to leave your current position?"
The answer to the question could be due to managerial issues, or worries about work-life balance. No matter the answer but the way that you express your answer will demonstrate your capacity to be an objective and fair observer. Give a clear and honest explanation of your responses in the most objective way feasible. This means removing any emotional responses , such as responses based on emotions or feelings and are not substantiated by actual facts.
Other questions to be prepared for include "What motivated you to apply for this role?", "Why should be hiring you?", or trick questions like "Why should us not choose you?" The key is to remain 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 follow with a brief explanation or a brief summary of why you responded a certain manner. Next, provide details or go into more detail. After you have explained thoroughly then return to the previous section.
Also, if asked to write about your involvement in a task or project it is possible to use to describe your involvement in a project or task, you can use the STAR Method, which is typically used to respond on selection criteria. In using STAR the first thing you need to do is write a situation,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken then the Result.
The body language
Behaving naturally in a stressful situation may be a challenge, but you can always learn to communicate professionally. Sit in front of a mirror or ask a trusted friend to ask questions and take note of your actions. Are you moving or fidgeting around with a nervousness? Do you seem stiff, standoffish, defensive or reserved in your body expression? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions consistent with the point you are trying to convey? Do you communicate genuineness, honesty and genuine interest?
Be aware of your strengths and your weaknesses.
Before you go to the interview, be sure to read the job description again. If you have read the job description and utilized the roles and duties listed within to customize and modify your resume and other document of selection, it is important to review the job description to honestly package yourself for the interviewer. Be upfront and honest about your strengths and weaknesses. Being truthful about your strengths will enable interviewers to recognize your strengths as a potential client. But, indicating your intention to address your weaknesses will also be important.
Prepare questions
Another important aspect of the interview is to show genuine interest about the job and the business. The most appropriate person to ask is the interviewer. If you’ve seen something that’s interesting on the resume or if you’ve got any concerns that weren’t answered through their FAQ or guide questions (which are typically found within the job application or the general page for hiring About section) Bring them up after the interview, after your interviewer is encouraging you to ask questions. Some of the questions you could ask your employer:
"How do I become the most suitable person for the task, if given the chance to work with you and your colleagues?"
"Does the company have any major projects on right now"
"What are the opportunities for advancement and further training?"
Know your salary expectations
The salary package and other benefits are generally advertised with the job (or in a variety for those applying through SEEK). However, interviewers may still be interested in knowing what you are expecting. One important tip is to include a range that you’d like your pay to fall instead of offering an exact or set number. Make sure to keep your range tight instead of giving an expansive margin. If, for instance, you think you will earn $75,000 in a year, an appropriate range would be in the $73,000 to $80,000 range, or anything in the range of $10,000. Be aware of any other benefits and perks too and think about these when you think about your salary goals.
Inputting these steps into your pocket is crucial to be prepared with the capability to handle the toughest questions. Be confident, feel confident and be courageous.
To assist with recruitment-related documents or credentials as well as interviews, please reach out to Perth Resume. Our highly skilled and knowledgeable consultants will be able to guide you through the interview preparation steps. Contact us today to receive your complimentary quote or call us direct to speak with one of our experts on 1300 820 847.
