Optimizing Your Interview Preparation
Perhaps the most frightening aspects of job hunting is the interview stage. The fear of an interview is a natural result of wanting acceptance and approval from others in particular from potential employers. Although talking about oneself may be natural for some However, some are uncomfortable being asked questions regarding their work or prior accomplishments. Perhaps due to modesty or the fear of being asked personal questions The interview process has evolved into one of the biggest and most intimidating parts during the selection process.
This doesn’t need to be the situation.
Interviews are a crucial way for the applicant to show that their competencies have been demonstrated, as well as their potential. You have already made it through the first step and your resume has made the cut through ATS scanners and being shortlisted for an interview. This is the chance to showcase and elaborate further on your profile, work history, and key skills and experience is the equivalent of getting a step to the front: if you convince the interviewer you’re qualified this increases your chances of getting through the next stage of the selection process.
Luckily, you can prepare for interviews if you have apprehensions about talking about your personal achievements. Practice is key to a successful interview, and luckily, the questions can be practiced in advance. The key to flawless interviews is preparation, and here are some tips that you can follow to boost your chances of getting through that interview and impressing your potential employers.
Make yourself comfortable when faced with tricky questions
Interviewers are able to ask tough questions partly because they want to get information from you however, also in order to help how you can get rid of potentially contentious topics and issues. Consider for instance the question "Why have you decided to quit your current role?"
The answer to the question could be due to managerial issues, or worries about work-life balance. Whatever the reason, 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 can be. This means that you should eliminate any emotional responses , such as responses that are based solely on feelings or sentiments that are not supported by factual evidence.
Other important questions to ask are "What did you do to get this job?", "Why should we choose your services?", or trick questions like "Why should be able to not take you on?" The key is to not lose composure and organise your thoughts carefully.
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 explanation or a brief summary of why you chose to respond in a specific way. Next, provide details or go into more detail. Once you’ve thoroughly explained, go back to the previous section.
Similarly, if you are asked to describe your involvement in a project or task, you may utilize an approach called the STAR Method, which is typically used to respond on selection criteria. If you are using STAR it is necessary to describe an context,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken followed by the results.
It’s all in body language
The ability to act naturally in stressful situation could be a tall order however, you can learn to communicate professionally. You can sit in front of a mirror or ask a friend you trust to ask questions and take note of your actions. Are you flitting or shifting around in a tense manner? Do you appear uneasy, aggressive or reserved in your body language? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions reflect your message you’re trying to make? Do you communicate genuineness, honesty and genuine enthusiasm?
Take a look at your strengths and weaknesses
Prior to the interview, be sure to read the job description again. Assuming that you’ve read the description and used the roles and responsibilities listed in it to alter and personalize your resume as well as other selection documents It is essential to think about the job description in order to accurately package yourself for the interviewer. Be upfront and honest concerning your abilities and shortcomings. Being open about your strengths will enable the interviewer to notice your selling points as a prospective client. However, showing your determination to address your weaknesses is just as important.
Prepare questions
Another aspect to consider in the interview is showing genuine interest in the job and within the company. The best person to approach for questions during the interview is the one you interview. If you’ve seen something that’s interesting in the job description or you have questions that were left unanswered on their FAQ page or their guide questions (which are typically found within the job description or the general page for hiring about section) Bring them up at the conclusion of the interview when the interviewer encourages you to ask questions. Some of the questions you could ask your employer include:
"How can I be the best person for the task, if given the opportunity to work alongside the team?"
"Does the company have any major projects in the pipeline currently"
"What are the possibilities for further development and training?"
Know your salary expectations
The salary package and other benefits are often advertised with the position (or in a variety, in the case of SEEK). However, interviewers could be interested in knowing what you’re expecting to earn. The most important thing to do is give a range of where you would like your salary to fall rather than giving an exact or set number. Try to keep your range tight instead of giving any wide range. For example, if you expect to make $75,000 a year, an appropriate range would be in the $73,000 to $80,000 or anywhere within the $10,000-$10,000 range. Also, be aware of other perks and benefits also and take these into consideration when you are evaluating your salary expectations.
Having these preparatory steps in your bag is vital for ensuring you are in readiness to face the toughest questions. Be confident, be self-assured and be courageous.
For assistance in recruitment-related documents and certificates, as well as for the preparation for your interview, reach out to Perth Resume. Our friendly and highly trained consultants can guide you through the interview preparation stages. Contact us today to receive a no-cost quote or to call us directly to speak to one of our experts on 1300 202 475.
