Interview Readiness Blueprint
One of the most frightening aspects of the job search is the daunting interview process. Interview fear is a natural result of wanting recognition and acceptance from other people particularly from prospective employers. While expressing themselves in a positive manner may come naturally to some people however, many are nervous about being asked questions about their careers or their previous achievements. Perhaps due to modesty or the discomfort arising from being asked questions that are personal to them, the interview has become among the more nerve-wracking parts during the selection process.
It doesn’t have to be the scenario.
Interviews are a great 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 its way through ATS scanners, and your name being selected for an interview. This opportunity to present and elaborate upon one’s profile, employment history and the most important skills and experience is the equivalent of getting a foot in the door when you convince the interviewer that you’re a good fit that increases your chances of passing to the next step in the selection process.
Luckily, you can prepare for interviews if you have apprehensions about talking about your achievements. The practice is essential to a successful interview, and luckily, the questions can be rehearsed ahead of time. The key to a flawless interview is preparation, and here are some suggestions you can follow to boost your chances of getting through that interview and impressing future employers.
Learn to be comfortable around difficult questions.
Interviewers pose challenging questions partly because they want to gain information as well as in order to help you get out of potential contentious issues and concerns. Consider for instance the question "Why are you resigning from your current position?"
The reason for this could be due to management concerns, or issues about work-life balance. Whatever the reason but the way that you express your answer will show your ability to be an objective and fair observer. Be honest and articulate your answer with as much objectivity as possible. This means eliminating any emotional responses , such as answers that are based purely on feelings or sentiments and are not substantiated by facts.
Other questions to prepare for are "What made you apply for this job?", "Why should we hire us?", or trick questions like "Why should be able to not choose you?" The key is not to lose your cool and organise your thoughts carefully.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Begin with your topic and then provide a concise argument or explanation of why you responded a certain way. Next, provide instances or elaborate. After you’ve clarified your points thoroughly then return to the previous section.
Also, if required to explain your participation in a task or project, you may employ an approach called the STAR Method, which is typically used to respond to criteria for selection. When using STAR, you must state a situation,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken followed by the final result.
The body language
Being natural in a stressful situation could be a challenge, but you can always make sure you are practicing professional communication. Put yourself in front of the mirror or have a trusted companion to inquire about your concerns and note your mannerisms. Are you flitting or shifting around with a nervousness? Do you look stiff, standoffish, defensive or shut off in your body expression? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions reflect what you want to make? Do you convey authenticity, openness and genuine concern?
Think about your strengths and your weaknesses.
Prior to the interview, ensure that you go over the job description again. Assuming you read the job description and applied the roles and responsibilities outlined within to customize and modify your resume and other document of selection It is imperative to think about the job description in order to accurately package yourself for the interviewer. Be honest and upfront concerning your abilities and shortcomings. Being truthful about your strengths can allow the interviewer to see your selling points as a prospective client. However, signalling your intent to work on your weak points will be equally notable.
Prepare questions
Another aspect to consider in the interview is showing genuine interest in the job and within the company. The best person to inquire for questions during the interview is the one you interview. If you have noticed something intriguing on the resume or you have questions that were left unanswered by their FAQ page or the guide questions (which are typically found within the job application or their general hiring page about section) Bring them up after the interview, when your interviewer asks you to pose questions. A few questions that you can ask your employer
"How can I be the most suitable person for the job, should I be offered the chance to be part of you and your colleagues?"
"Does the company have any major projects in the pipeline right now"
"What are the opportunities for further development and training?"
Be aware of your salary expectations
The salary package and other benefits are generally advertised with the job (or as part of a range, if applying through SEEK). However, interviewers could ask you how much you anticipate earning. An important point to remember is to offer a range within which you would like your salary to be, rather than providing an exact number or a set amount. Be sure to keep the range tight instead of giving the possibility of a large margin. For instance, if you anticipate earning $75,000 per year, a good range would be in the $73,000 to $80,000 range, or anyplace within the $10,000 range. Also, be aware of additional perks and benefits as well and consider these when you evaluate your salary goals.
These steps to prepare in your back pocket is essential for ensuring you are in readiness to face the toughest questions. Be confident, confident, and confident, and be bold.
If you need assistance with documents related to recruitment and credentials and for the preparation for your interview, contact Perth Resume. Our friendly and highly trained consultants will be able to help you with your interview preparation stages. Contact us today for an complimentary quote or phone us directly to speak with one of our experts on 1300 648 974.
