Ace Your Interviews: Preparation Guide
The most difficult aspect of job hunts is the interview stage. Interview fear is a natural result of wanting to seek acceptance and approval from others and especially your potential employers. Although expressing their opinions about themselves might be natural for some However, some are uncomfortable being asked questions about their careers or their previous accomplishments. Perhaps it is because of modesty or the discomfort that comes with being asked questions about their personal life The interview process has evolved into one of the most stressful parts of the hiring process.
This does not have to be the situation.
Interviews are a great way for the applicant to showcase their abilities, achievements, and potentials. You’ve completed the initial step, with your resume making the cut through ATS scanners, and your name being shortlisted for an interview. This is the chance to showcase and elaborate further on one’s profile, employment history, and key skills and expertise is the proverbial entrance into the interview and if you can convince the interviewer you’re a good fit this increases your chances of passing through the next phase of the final selection process.
There is no need to be worried about preparing for interviews even if you’re having concerns about presenting your achievements. It is important to practice, and fortunately, interview questions can be rehearsed in advance. The secret to successful interviews is preparation. Here are some suggestions you can implement to improve your chances of aceing that interview and impressing potential employers.
Get comfortable around tricky questions.
Interviewers are able to ask tough questions partially because they wish to gather information as well as because they want to see you navigate your way out of potentially contentious questions and issues. For instance, consider the question "Why are you leaving your current job?"
The answer could be due to management concerns, or issues about the balance between work and life, etc. No matter the answer, however, the manner in which you phrase your answer will show your ability to be an objective and fair observer. Be honest and articulate your responses in the most objective way possible. This means that you should eliminate all emotional responses, like responses based on sentiments or feelings, and are not substantiated by actual facts.
Other questions to prepare for include "What motivated you to apply for this job?", "Why should be hiring us?", or trick questions like "Why should 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. Lead with your point and then follow it up with a short reason or summary as to why you chose to respond in a specific manner. Then, add examples or further elaborate. Once you’ve explained everything thoroughly then return to your previous point.
Also, if required to explain your participation in a task or project and you are required to describe your involvement, you could use this method. STAR Method, which is commonly used to respond on selection criteria. If you are using STAR it is necessary to describe the Situation,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken followed by the Result.
It’s all in the body language
The ability to act naturally in difficult situation can be a tall order but it is possible to try to practice professional communication. Put yourself in front of the mirror or have a trusted companion to inquire about your concerns and observe your behavior. Are you fidgeting or shifting about with anxiety? Do you appear intimidating, stiff, defensive or shut off in your body or speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions consistent with what you want to make? Do you communicate genuineness, honesty, and genuine interest?
Consider your strengths and weaknesses.
Before you go to the interview, you should read the description of the position. If you have read the job description and then used the roles and duties listed therein to modify and customise your resume and other documents for selection It is imperative to review the job description to clearly package yourself for the interviewer. Be open and honest on your strength and weakness. Being truthful about your strengths will allow interviewers to recognize your strengths as a potential customer. However, signalling your intent to address your weak points will be equally relevant.
Prepare questions
Another key aspect of the interview is showing genuine interest for the position and the business. The best person to inquire to ask questions of the person interviewing you is. If you’ve noticed something you like within the description of your job, or you have questions that were left unanswered through their FAQ or the guide questions (which typically are found in the job packet or their general hiring page About section) Make sure to bring them up after the interview, after your interviewer invites you to ask questions. Some thought-provoking questions you may ask your employer are:
"How do I become an ideal candidate for the job, if I am given the chance to be part of your team?"
"Does the company has any major projects going on in the present"
"What are the chances for advancement and further training?"
Know your salary expectations
Benefits and salary packages are typically advertised along with the job (or within a set of options 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 offer a range within which you’d like your salary to fall rather than giving an exact, fixed amount. Be sure to keep the range tight instead of giving a wide margin. For instance, if you are expecting to earn $75,000 per year, a good range is anywhere between the $73,000 to $80,000 area or anywhere within the $10,000-$10,000 range. Be aware of any other benefits and perks also and take these into consideration when you are evaluating your salary expectations.
The preparation steps you have in your pocket is crucial to ensure you have the readiness to face the toughest questions. Be confident, self-assured and be courageous.
If you need assistance with documents related to recruitment and credentials and for interview preparation, contact Perth Resume. Our highly skilled and knowledgeable consultants will be able to assist you in your preparation stages. Contact us today for your complimentary quote or phone us directly to speak with one our experts on 1300 192 621.
