Steps to Interview Readiness
One of the most daunting aspects of job searching is the fear of an interview. It is a normal consequence of seeking approval and validation from others in particular from potential employers. Although talking about oneself may be natural for some but others feel nervous about being asked questions regarding their professional or previous successes. Perhaps it is because of modesty or the discomfort arising from being asked to answer personal questions interviews have turned out to be one of the biggest and most intimidating parts that are required to hire.
This doesn’t need to be the situation.
Interviews are an important way for the applicant to demonstrate their skills are, their achievements, and potential. You’ve made it through the first step and your resume has made it through ATS scanners and being considered for an interview. The chance to show and elaborate on the profile of your employer, background as well as the key skills and expertise is the proverbial foot in the door: if you convince the interviewer that you’re the right candidate, it boosts your chances of getting through the next phase of the final selection process.
You can, fortunately, prepare for interviews even if you’re having fears about speaking about your own achievements. Practice is key and luckily, interview questions can be rehearsed in advance. The secret to flawless interviews is preparation, and here are some tips that you can implement to improve your chances of nailing the interview and impressing potential employers.
Learn to be comfortable around difficult questions
Interviewers are able to ask tough questions partly because they want to get information from you and information, but also because they want to help you navigate your way out of potentially contentious questions and concerns. Consider for instance the question "Why are you leaving your current role?"
The answer to the question could be due to problems with management, or concerns about the balance between work and life, etc. Whatever the reason however, the manner that you express your response will signal your ability to be an objective and fair observer. Respond honestly and explain your response with as much objectivity as can be. This includes removing emotional responses like answers based on feelings or emotions and are not substantiated by evidence.
Other questions to prepare for include "What made you apply for this job?", "Why should be hiring the person we chose to hire?", or trick questions such as "Why do be able to not take you on?" The key is to stay calm and organize your thoughts in a systematic manner.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Start with your statement and then follow it up with a short argument or explanation of why you responded a certain manner. Next, provide instances or elaborate. Once you’ve explained everything thoroughly then return to your original point.
Also, if asked to write about your involvement on a project or task it is possible to employ an approach called the STAR Method, which is typically used to respond to criteria for selection. If you are using STAR it is necessary to describe an situation,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken followed by the result.
It’s all in body language
Behaving naturally in a stressful situation could be difficult, but you can always practice professional communication. Sit in front of a mirror or ask a friend you trust to ask you questions and observe your behavior. Are you flitting or shifting around in a tense manner? Do you appear stiff, standoffish, defensive or reserved in your body and speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions match the point you are trying to make? Do you display sincerity, authenticity and genuine enthusiasm?
Take a look at your strengths and your weaknesses.
Prior to the interview, be sure to review the job description again. In the event that you’ve read the description and utilized the roles and duties listed in it to alter and personalize your resume as well as other selection documents It is crucial to review the job description and how you will present yourself to the interviewer. Be honest and upfront regarding your weaknesses and strengths. Being honest about your strengths can allow the interviewer to notice your selling points as a prospect. However, announcing your intention to work on your weak points will be equally important.
Prepare questions
Another key aspect of the interview is showing genuine interest in the role and in the business. The most appropriate person to ask questions is your interviewer. If you have noticed something intriguing from the job descriptions or you have questions not answered through their FAQ or guide questions (which typically are found in the job application or the general page for hiring about section) Make sure to bring them up at the end of the interview, when your interviewer asks you to pose questions. A few questions that you can ask your employer
"How do I become the most qualified person for this task, if given the opportunity to work alongside you and your colleagues?"
"Does the company have any major projects on at the moment"
"What are the possibilities for advancement and further training?"
Know what your salary expectations are.
The salary package and other benefits are generally advertised with the job (or within a set of options if applying through SEEK). However, the interviewer may inquire about the amount you expect to earn. A good tip is to give a range of where you’d like your salary to fall instead of offering an exact number or a set amount. Be sure to keep the limit to a narrow range instead of providing the possibility of a large margin. For instance, if expect to make $75,000 a year, a good range would be anywhere in the $73,000 to $80,000 range, or anything in the range of $10,000. Be mindful of additional perks and benefits also and take these into consideration when you evaluate your salary goals.
These steps to prepare in your back pocket is essential for ensuring you are in capability to handle the toughest questions. Be confident, confident, and confident and courageous.
If you need assistance with documents related to recruitment or credentials as well as interview preparation, you may contact Perth Resume. Our professional and friendly consultants can help you with your interview preparation phases. Contact us today for an free quotation or contact us directly to speak with one of our experts on 1300 202 475.