Optimizing Your Interview Preparation
Perhaps the most daunting aspects of job searching is the interview stage. It is a normal result of wanting the approval and support of others and especially your potential employers. Although talking about oneself may seem natural to certain people However, some are uncomfortable being asked questions regarding their professional or previous achievements. Perhaps it is because of modesty or the anxiety that comes from being asked personal questions, the interview has become an extremely intimidating aspects that are required to hire.
This doesn’t have to be the scenario.
Interviews are the best means for the candidate to demonstrate their skills are, their achievements, and potential. You have already completed the initial step with your resume passing its way through ATS scanners, and your name being selected for an interview. The chance to show and elaborate further on your profile, work history and the most important skills and abilities is the proverbial way to get noticed and if you can convince the interviewer that you’re a good fit this increases your chances of passing the next stage of the selection process.
You can, fortunately, prepare for interviews if you have apprehensions about talking about your achievements. It is important to practice and, fortunately, interview questions can be practiced in advance. The secret to flawless interviews is preparation. Here are some suggestions you can follow to boost your chances at nailing that interview and impressing your future employers:
Get comfortable around tricky questions
Interviewers are able to ask tough questions mostly because they are trying to elicit information and information, but also since they want to help how you can get rid of potentially contentious questions and worries. Consider for instance the question "Why have you decided to quit your current role?"
The reason for this may be because of management issues, or concerns with work-life balance, etc. No matter the answer however, the manner in which you phrase your answer will show your ability to be a fair and objective observer. Be honest and articulate your responses with as much objectivity as feasible. This means eliminating emotional responses like answers that are based purely on feelings or emotions and are not substantiated by facts.
Other questions to consider are "What made you apply for this job?", "Why should us choose to hire the person we chose to hire?", or trick questions like "Why should you not choose you?" The key is not to lose your cool and organize your thoughts in a systematic manner.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Introduce your idea and then provide a concise reason or summary as to the reasons you responded in a certain way. Add details or go into more detail. Once you’ve thoroughly explained you can go back to your original point.
Also, if required to explain your participation in a particular project or task, you may utilize an approach called the STAR Method, which is often used when responding to selection criteria. When using STAR the first thing you need to do is write a Situation,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken as well as the final result.
All it is in the body language
Behaving naturally in a stressful situation could be a tall order however, you can try to practice professional communication. Sit in front of a mirror or have a trusted companion to ask questions of you and note your mannerisms. Are you fidgeting or shifting about with anxiety? Are you looking uneasy, aggressive or reserved in your body language? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions match the message you’re trying to make? Do you convey openness, sincerity and genuine enthusiasm?
Consider your strengths and weak points.
Before you go to the interview, you should review the job description once more. Assuming you read the job description and utilized the roles and responsibilities listed within to customize and modify your resume and other documents for selection It is imperative to review the job description in order to accurately describe yourself to the interviewer. Be honest and upfront concerning your abilities and shortcomings. Being truthful regarding your strengths will allow the interviewer to notice your selling points as a potential client. However, showing your determination to address your weaknesses will also be notable.
Prepare questions
Another crucial aspect of an interview is to show 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’ve noticed something you like in the job description or if you’ve got any concerns that weren’t answered through their FAQ or guide questions (which typically are found in the job packet or their general hiring page about section), raise these during the interview, after your interviewer encourages you to ask questions. Some of the questions you could ask your employer:
"How do I become the most suitable person for the job, should I be given the chance to work alongside you and your colleagues?"
"Does the company have any major projects on right now"
"What are the possibilities to advance and further education?"
Know what your salary expectations are.
Other benefits and packages for salary are usually advertised alongside the job (or on a list for those applying through SEEK). However, interviewers could want to know what salary you anticipate earning. The most important thing to do is include a range that you’d like your salary to fall instead of offering 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 anticipate earning $75,000 per year, an appropriate range is anywhere between 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 expectations.
These steps to prepare in your pocket is crucial to be prepared with the readiness to face the toughest questions. Be confident, feel confident and courageous.
If you need assistance with documents related to recruitment and certificates, as well as 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 today for the free quotation or phone us directly for a chat with one of our consultants on 1300 648 974.
