Optimizing Your Interview Preparation
A major and daunting aspect of job hunts is the dreaded interview round. Interview fear is a natural result of wanting to seek approval and validation from others and especially your potential employers. While speaking about themselves may come naturally to some people but others feel nervous about being asked questions about their careers or their previous successes. Perhaps due to modesty or the anxiety that comes from being asked questions about their personal life The interview process has evolved into an extremely intimidating aspects in the process of hiring.
It doesn’t have to be the case.
Interviews are the best means for the candidate to demonstrate their skills have been demonstrated, as well as their potential. You’ve already completed the initial step, with your resume making it through ATS scanners and you being shortlisted for an interview. This is the chance to showcase and elaborate upon your profile, work history and the most important skills and expertise is the proverbial way to get noticed If you can convince the interviewer you have what it takes you increase your odds of getting through the next stage of the final selection process.
Luckily, you can prepare for interviews in case you’re experiencing concerns about presenting your achievements. The practice is essential and luckily, interview questions can be rehearsed prior to the time. The key to a flawless interview is preparation. Here are some helpful tips you can apply to boost your chances of aceing that interview and impressing prospective employers:
Learn to be comfortable around difficult questions.
Interviewers ask challenging questions, partly because they want to gather information, but also, in order to help you come out of potentially contentious issues and issues. For instance, consider the question "Why are you resigning from your current position?"
The answer to this question could be due to managerial issues, or worries regarding work-life balance, for instance. No matter the answer but the way that you express your response will signal your ability to be a fair and objective observer. Respond honestly and explain your response in the most objective way can be. This means that you should eliminate any emotional responses , such as answers based on sentiments or feelings, that are not supported by facts.
Other questions to be prepared for are "What did you do to get this role?", "Why should we hire the person we chose to hire?", or trick questions like "Why do us not choose you?" The key is to remain calm and organize your thoughts in a systematic manner.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Lead with your point and follow up with a short argument or explanation of the reason you reacted in a particular way. Then, add instances or elaborate. After you have explained thoroughly you can go back to your previous point.
Also, if required to explain your participation on a project or task and you are required to describe your involvement, you could utilize to describe your involvement in a project or task, you can use the STAR Method, which is commonly used to respond on selection criteria. If you are using STAR you will need to write a situation,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken followed by the results.
All it is in the body language
The ability to act naturally in stressful situation could be difficult but it is possible to learn to communicate professionally. Put yourself in front of the mirror or ask a trusted friend to ask questions and note your mannerisms. Are you shifting or fidgeting about with anxiety? Do you look uneasy, aggressive or aloof in your body or speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions consistent with the point you are trying to convey? Do you display genuineness, honesty and genuine interest?
Consider your strengths and your weaknesses.
Prior to your interview, you should go over the job description once more. In the event that you’ve read the description and used the roles and duties listed in the description to make changes to your resume and other document of selection, it is important to look at the job description and how you will present yourself to the interviewer. Be upfront and honest concerning your abilities and shortcomings. Being honest about your strengths can allow the interviewer to note your strengths as a prospective client. However, announcing your intention to work on your weak points will be equally notable.
Prepare questions
Another key aspect of the interview is showing genuine enthusiasm in the job and within the business. The most appropriate person to ask for questions during the interview is the one you interview. If you noticed something interesting in the job description or if you have questions not answered on their FAQ page or their guide questions (which are typically found within the job packet or in the general page for hiring About section) Make sure to bring them up after the interview, after your interviewer encourages you to ask questions. The most interesting questions you could ask your employer
"How do I become the most suitable person for the job, if I am given the chance to work with you and your colleagues?"
"Does the company has any major projects going on right now"
"What are the possibilities to further develop and learn?"
Know what your salary expectations are.
Benefits and salary packages are generally advertised with the position (or within a set of options, for those applying through SEEK). But, interviewers might inquire about the amount you anticipate earning. One important tip is to provide a range in which you’d like your earnings to be, rather than providing an exact, fixed amount. Try to keep your range tight instead of giving any wide range. If, for instance, you expect to make $75,000 a year, a sensible range would be in the $73,000 to $80,000 range, or anywhere within the $10,000 range. Be mindful of additional perks and benefits also and take these into consideration when you are evaluating your salary expectations.
The preparation steps you have in your bag is vital for ensuring you are in confidence to answer the toughest questions. Be confident, self-assured and courageous.
To assist with recruitment-related documents and credentials and for the preparation for your interview, get in touch with Perth Resume. Our friendly and highly trained consultants are able to help you with your interview preparation steps. Contact us now for the no-cost quote or to call us directly for a chat with one of our experts on 1300 202 475.
