Ace Your Interviews: Preparation Guide
The most difficult aspects of the job search is the daunting interview process. It is a normal consequence of seeking recognition and acceptance from other people particularly from prospective employers. Although expressing their opinions about themselves might seem natural to certain people but others feel nervous about being asked questions about their careers or their previous accomplishments. Perhaps due to modesty or the discomfort that comes with being asked questions about their personal life, the interview has become one of the biggest and most intimidating parts of the hiring process.
This does not have to be the scenario.
Interviews are an important way for the applicant to demonstrate their skills as well as their accomplishments and capabilities. You’ve already been through the first step by submitting your resume to the cut through ATS scanners and your name being shortlisted for an interview. This opportunity to present and elaborate upon one’s profile, employment history as well as key abilities and abilities is the proverbial step to the front and if you can convince the interviewer that you’re a good fit that increases your chances of passing through the next step of the selection process.
You can, fortunately, prepare for interview questions if you’re struggling with fears about speaking about your personal achievements. The practice is essential and, fortunately, interview questions can be practiced ahead of time. The key to flawless interviews is preparation. Here are some suggestions you can apply to boost your chances of nailing the interview and impressing your future employers:
Make yourself comfortable when faced with tricky questions.
Interviewers will ask you tough questions, partially because they wish to elicit information however, also because they want to see you come out of potentially contentious topics and worries. For instance, consider the question "Why have you decided to quit your current position?"
The reason for this may be because of management issues, or concerns about the balance between work and life, etc. No matter the answer, however, the manner in which you phrase your answer will demonstrate your ability to be a fair and objective observer. Respond honestly and explain your responses using as much objectivity is possible. This means removing any emotional responses , such as responses based on feelings or emotions and are not supported by actual facts.
Other questions to be prepared for are "What did you do to get this role?", "Why should we choose us?", or trick questions such as "Why do us not hire you?" The key is to stay calm 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 provide a concise reason or summary as to why you chose to respond in a specific way. Add details or go into more detail. Once you’ve thoroughly explained the topic, return to your previous point.
Similarly, if you are asked to describe your involvement in a project or task and you are required to describe your involvement, you could employ to describe your involvement in a project or task, you can use the STAR Method, which is often used when responding to criteria for selection. When you use STAR, you must state a Situation,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken then the result.
All it is in the body language
Acting naturally in a stressful situation could be a tall order however, you can practice professional communication. You can sit in front of a mirror or have a trusted companion to inquire about your concerns and note your mannerisms. Are you flitting or shifting around in a tense manner? Are you looking stiff, standoffish, defensive or shut off in your body expression? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions reflect the message you’re trying to convey? Do you show authenticity, openness and genuine interest?
Consider your strengths and weaknesses
Before you go to the interview, you should review the description of the position. If you have read the job description and then used the roles and duties listed therein to modify and customise your resume as well as other selection documents It is imperative to think about the job description and how you will package yourself for the interviewer. Be upfront and honest concerning your abilities and shortcomings. Being truthful about your strengths will enable interviewers to recognize your selling points as a potential client. But, indicating your intention to improve your weak points will be equally relevant.
Prepare questions
Another crucial aspect of an interview is showing genuine interest about the job and the company. The best person to approach to ask questions of the person interviewing you is. If you’ve seen something that’s interesting in the job description, or if you have questions that were left unanswered on their FAQ page or their guide questions (which are usually found in the job packet or in the general page for hiring about section), raise these after the interview, when your interviewer invites you to ask questions. Some of the questions you could ask your employer include:
"How do I become the most qualified person for this job, if I am given the opportunity to join members of your staff?"
"Does the company have any major projects on at the moment"
"What are the possibilities to further develop and learn?"
Know what your salary expectations are.
The salary package and other benefits are typically advertised along with the job (or within a set of options, for those applying through SEEK). However, the interviewer may want to know what salary you expect to earn. The most important thing to do is include a range that you would like your salary to fall rather than giving an exact or fixed number. Be sure to keep the range as narrow as possible instead of offering a any wide range. For example, if you are expecting to earn $75,000 per year, a sensible range is anywhere between the $73,000-$80,000 range or anywhere within the $10,000-$10,000 range. Be mindful of other benefits and perks in addition to these when you evaluate your salary goals.
The preparation steps you have in your pocket is crucial to ensure you have the confidence to answer the toughest questions. Be confident, self-assured and be courageous.
For assistance in recruitment-related documents or credentials as well as interview preparation, you may reach out to Perth Resume. Our friendly and highly trained consultants will be able to help you with your interview preparation phases. Contact us today for an complimentary quote or call us direct for a chat with one of our experts on 1300 820 847.
