Ready Yourself for Interviews
Perhaps the most daunting aspects of the job search is the interview stage. Fear of being interviewed is a natural result of wanting approval and validation from others particularly from prospective employers. While expressing themselves in a positive manner may seem natural to certain people, others are apprehensive about being asked questions regarding their careers or their previous accomplishments. Perhaps out of modesty and the discomfort that comes with being asked personal questions interviews have turned out to be one of the most intimidating parts in the process of hiring.
This does not have to be the situation.
Interviews are a great way for the applicant to prove their capabilities are, their achievements, and potential. You’ve already completed the initial step, with your resume making it through ATS scanners and being selected for an interview. This chance to present and elaborate on one’s profile, employment history as well as the key skills and expertise is the proverbial step to the front and if you can convince the interviewer you’re qualified, it boosts your chances of passing through the next step of the final selection process.
Luckily, you can prepare for interviews if you have doubts about speaking about your personal achievements. It is important to practice and, fortunately, interview questions can be rehearsed prior to the time. The key to a flawless interview is preparation, and here are some helpful tips you can use to increase your chances at nailing that interview and impressing future employers:
Learn to be comfortable around difficult questions
Interviewers ask challenging questions, partially because they wish to get information from you, but also, in order to help how you can get rid of potentially contentious issues and concerns. Consider for instance the question "Why have you decided to quit your current job?"
The answer to the question may be because of managerial issues, or worries about the balance between work and life, etc. No matter the answer however, the manner in which you phrase your response will signal your ability to be an objective and fair observer. Answer honestly and explain your responses with as much objectivity as is possible. This means that you should eliminate any emotional responses , such as answers that are based purely on feelings or sentiments and do not have any basis in facts.
Other questions to be prepared for include "What did you do to get this role?", "Why should be hiring your services?", or trick questions like "Why should we not employ you?" The key is to remain calm and plan your thoughts well.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Lead with your point and then provide a concise note of the reason or reasons why you responded a certain way. Next, provide examples or further elaborate. Once you’ve explained everything thoroughly, go back to your original point.
Also, if asked to describe your involvement in a particular project or task then you can employ this method. STAR Method, which is typically used to respond on selection criteria. If you are using STAR it is necessary to describe a scenario,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken then the final result.
All it is in the body language
Being natural in a stressful environment can be a challenge however, you can make sure you are practicing professional communication. Place yourself in front of a mirror or have a trusted companion to ask questions and observe your body language. Are you moving or fidgeting about with anxiety? Do you seem intimidating, stiff, defensive, or closed off in your body and speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions match the message you’re trying to make? Do you communicate authenticity, openness and genuine enthusiasm?
Take a look at your strengths and weaknesses.
Prior to the interview, make sure you read the job description once more. If you have read the job description and utilized the roles and responsibilities listed therein to modify and customise your resume as well as other selection documents It is imperative to look at the job description and how you will describe yourself to the interviewer. Be honest and upfront about your strengths and weaknesses. Being realistic about your strengths will enable the interviewer to notice your unique selling points as a prospect. However, showing your determination to improve your weaknesses will be just as important.
Prepare questions
Another aspect to consider in the interview is showing genuine interest in the role and in the company. The best person to ask to ask questions of the person interviewing you is. If you have noticed something intriguing in the job description, or if you have questions that have not been answered through their FAQ or guide questions (which are usually found in the job application or the general page for hiring about section) Bring them up during the interview, after your interviewer is encouraging you to ask questions. A few questions that you can ask your employer include:
"How do I become the most suitable person for the jobif given the chance to work with the team?"
"Does the company have any major projects underway at the moment"
"What are the potential opportunities for advancement and further training?"
Know your salary expectations
Other benefits and packages for salary are usually advertised alongside the job (or on a list, when applying via SEEK). However, interviewers could be interested in knowing what you expect to earn. An important point to remember is to give a range of where you would like your salary to be, rather than providing an exact, fixed amount. Make sure to keep your range as narrow as possible instead of offering a a wide margin. For instance, if you anticipate earning $75,000 per year, a sensible range would be in the $73,000 to $80,000 range, or anything in the range of $10,000. Be mindful of other benefits and perks too and think about these when you are evaluating your salary goals.
The preparation steps you have in your bag is vital to be prepared with the ability to tackle the most difficult questions. Be confident, be self-assured and bold.
If you need assistance with documents related to recruitment and credentials , and also for interview preparation, get in touch with Perth Resume. Our highly skilled and knowledgeable consultants will be able to assist you in your preparation phases. Contact us now for your free quotation or phone us directly to speak to one of our consultants on 1300 456 098.
