Optimizing Your Interview Preparation
One of the most frightening aspects of job searching is the fear of an interview. Interview fear is a natural result of wanting approval and validation from others, especially from your prospective employers. Although talking about oneself may be a natural thing for some however, many are nervous about being asked questions regarding their work or prior successes. Perhaps it is because of modesty or the discomfort arising from being asked personal questions, the interview has become one of the most nerve-wracking parts that are required to hire.
This does not have to be the situation.
Interviews are a great way for the applicant to showcase their abilities are, their achievements, and potential. It’s been a while since you’ve been through the first step by submitting your resume to its way through ATS scanners and your name being selected for an interview. The chance to show and elaborate on the profile of your employer, background as well as key abilities and experience is the equivalent of getting a way to get noticed: if you convince the interviewer that you have what it takes this increases your chances of getting through the next stage of the selection process.
There is no need to be worried about preparing for interviews even if you’re having doubts about speaking about your personal achievements. Practice is key and, fortunately, interview questions can be practiced in advance. The secret to flawless interviews is preparation. Here are some tips that you can implement to improve your chances of nailing the interview and impressing your future employers:
Be comfortable with difficult questions.
Interviewers are able to ask tough questions partially because they wish to elicit information as well as since they want to help you navigate your way out of potential contentious issues and issues. Take for example the question "Why are you resigning from your current position?"
The answer could be due to problems with management, or concerns regarding work-life balance, for instance. No matter the answer, however, the manner that you express your answer will demonstrate your ability to be a fair and objective observer. Respond honestly and explain your answer with as much objectivity as possible. This includes removing all emotional responses, like responses based on feelings or sentiments and do not have any basis in actual facts.
Other important questions to ask include "What motivated you to apply for this role?", "Why should we choose you?", or trick questions like "Why should you not choose 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 follow with a brief reason or summary as to the reason you reacted in a particular manner. After that, you can add specific examples or provide more details. Once you’ve explained everything thoroughly you can go back to the previous section.
If you’re asked to describe your involvement on a project or task and you are required to describe your involvement, you could utilize an approach called the STAR Method, which is also usually used in responding to selection criteria. When using STAR, you must state an situation,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken then the results.
All it is in the body language
Behaving naturally in a stressful situation could be a daunting task however, you can practice professional communication. You can sit in front of a mirror or ask a friend you trust to ask questions and observe your behavior. Are you fidgeting or shifting about nervously? Are you looking uneasy, aggressive or reserved in your body and speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions in line with your message you’re trying to make? Do you convey openness, sincerity and genuine interest?
Be aware of your strengths and weaknesses
Before the interview, you should go over the job description again. If you have read the job description and used the roles and responsibilities listed in it to alter and personalize your resume and other document of selection It is imperative to think about the job description and how you will package yourself for the interviewer. Be upfront and honest on your strength and weakness. Being honest about your strengths will allow interviewers to recognize your unique selling points as a potential customer. However, signalling your intent to work on your weaknesses is just as notable.
Prepare questions
Another crucial aspect of an interview is showing genuine enthusiasm in the job and within the business. The most appropriate person to ask is the interviewer. If you’ve noticed something you like on the resume or if you have questions not answered through their FAQ or the guide questions (which are usually found in the job description or the general page for hiring About section) Bring them up at the end of the interview when the interviewer asks you to pose questions. Some thought-provoking questions you may ask your employer include:
"How do I become the best person for the job, if I am given the chance to join your team?"
"Does the company have any major projects in the pipeline in the present"
"What are the opportunities for further development and training?"
Know what your salary expectations are.
Other benefits and packages for salary are generally advertised with the job (or as part of a range, when applying via SEEK). But, interviewers might want to know what salary you’re expecting to earn. A good tip is to offer a range within which you’d like your earnings to fall instead of offering an exact or set number. Try to keep your range as narrow as possible instead of offering a any wide range. For instance, if you are expecting to earn $75,000 per year, a sensible range is anywhere between the $73,000 to $80,000 range, or anything in the range of $10,000. Be aware of any other perks and benefits also and take these into consideration when you consider your salary expectations.
Inputting these steps into your back pocket is essential to be prepared with the readiness to face the toughest questions. Be confident, be self-assured and courageous.
To assist with recruitment-related documents and credentials and for the preparation for your interview, contact Perth Resume. Our friendly and highly trained consultants will be able to guide you through the interview preparation steps. Contact us now for a complimentary quote or call us direct to speak with one our experts on 1300 648 974.
