Strategies for Interview Success
Perhaps the most frightening aspects of the job search is the daunting interview process. Fear of being interviewed is a natural consequence of seeking approval and validation from others in particular from potential employers. Although talking about oneself may be natural for some however, many are nervous about being asked about their careers or their previous successes. Perhaps because of modesty, or the anxiety that comes from being asked questions about their personal life, the interview has become an extremely intimidating parts in the process of hiring.
This doesn’t have to be the scenario.
Interviews are a great way for the applicant to prove their capabilities have been demonstrated, as well as their potential. It’s been a while since you’ve passed the first step and your resume has made it through ATS scanners and being selected for an interview. This chance to present and further elaborate on your profile, work history as well as the key skills and experience is the equivalent of getting a entrance into the interview and if you can convince the interviewer that you’re the right candidate that increases your chances of passing the next phase of the selection process.
Luckily, you can prepare for interviews even if you’re having doubts about speaking about your accomplishments. The practice is essential and luckily, interview questions can be practiced before the date. The key to flawless interviews is preparation. Here are some helpful tips you can apply to boost your chances at nailing that interview and impressing your prospective employers:
Make yourself comfortable when faced with tricky questions.
Interviewers pose challenging questions mostly because they are trying to get information from you as well as since they want to help you get out of potential contentious issues and issues. Consider for instance the question "Why are you leaving your current role?"
The answer may be because of management concerns, or issues about work-life balance. No matter the answer however, the manner the way you frame your answer will demonstrate your capacity to be a fair and objective observer. Give a clear and honest explanation of your reasoning in the most objective way possible. This includes removing any emotional responses such as responses based on feelings or emotions that are not supported by factual evidence.
Other important questions to ask are "What inspired you to apply for this job?", "Why should we hire us?", or trick questions like "Why do you not choose you?" The key is not to lose your cool and plan your thoughts well.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Begin with your topic and follow with a brief explanation or a brief summary of the reasons you responded in a certain way. After that, you can add specific examples or provide more details. After you’ve clarified your points thoroughly the topic, return to your previous point.
Also, if requested to provide a description of your participation in a project or task and you are required to describe your involvement, you could utilize the STAR Method, which is often used when responding on selection criteria. When using STAR it is necessary to describe a situation,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken as well as the result.
It’s all in the body language
Being natural in a difficult situation can be a tall order, but you can always try to practice professional communication. Sit in front of a mirror or ask a friend you trust to ask you questions and take note of your actions. Are you fidgeting or shifting about nervously? Do you seem intimidating, stiff, defensive, or closed off in your body expression? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions in line with the point you are trying to make? Do you communicate genuineness, honesty and genuine interest?
Take a look at your strengths and weaknesses
Before you go to the interview, make sure you read the job description once more. If you have read the job description and applied the roles and responsibilities listed in the description to make changes to your resume and other documents for selection It is crucial to consider the job description to clearly package yourself for the interviewer. Be upfront and honest about your strengths and weaknesses. Being truthful about your strengths can allow interviewers to recognize your selling points as a potential customer. However, announcing your intention to work on your weak points will be equally significant.
Prepare questions
Another aspect to consider in the interview is showing genuine enthusiasm for the position and the company. The best person to ask is the interviewer. If you’ve seen something that’s interesting within the description of your job or if you’ve got any questions that were left unanswered through their FAQ or the guide questions (which typically are found in the job description or their general hiring page About section) Make sure to bring them up at the end of the interview, when your interviewer is encouraging you to ask questions. The most interesting questions you could ask your employer are:
"How can I be the best person for the jobif given the chance to work alongside the team?"
"Does the company has any major projects going on currently"
"What are the opportunities to further develop and learn?"
Know what your salary expectations are.
Other benefits and packages for salary are usually advertised alongside the job (or in a variety, for those applying through SEEK). However, interviewers could be interested in knowing what you expect to earn. One important tip is to include a range that you would like your salary to fall instead of offering an exact or set number. Keep your range as narrow as possible instead of offering a the possibility of a large margin. For instance, if expect to make $75,000 a year, a good choice would be anything from the $73,000 to $80,000 area or anywhere within the $10,000-$10,000 range. Consider additional perks and benefits in addition to these when you think about your salary goals.
Inputting these steps into your bag is vital to equip yourself with 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 also for interviews, please contact Perth Resume. Our knowledgeable and professional consultants are able to guide you through the interview preparation steps. Contact us today for the free quote or to call us directly for a chat with one of our experts on 1300 192 621.