Steps to Interview Readiness
A major and difficult aspects of job hunting is the dreaded interview round. It is a normal result of wanting to seek approval and validation from others and especially your potential employers. While expressing themselves in a positive manner may seem natural to certain people however, many are nervous about being asked about their work or prior successes. Perhaps due to modesty or the discomfort that comes with being asked questions that are personal to them interviews have turned out to be among the more stressful parts in the process of hiring.
This doesn’t need to be the situation.
Interviews are a crucial method for applicants to demonstrate their skills as well as their accomplishments and capabilities. You have already passed the first step with your resume passing its way through ATS scanners, and your name getting a callback. The chance to show and further elaborate on your resume, experience, and key skills and abilities is the proverbial entrance into the interview: if you convince the interviewer you’re the right candidate you increase your odds of passing through the next step of the selection process.
There is no need to be worried about preparing 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 rehearsed in advance. The secret to successful interviews is preparation, and here are some guidelines you can implement to improve your chances at nailing that interview and impressing potential employers.
Learn to be comfortable around difficult questions.
Interviewers will ask you tough questions, partly because they want to gain information, but also, because they want to see you navigate your way out of potentially contentious questions and worries. Consider for instance the question "Why do you want to leave your current position?"
The answer to the question may be because of managerial issues, or worries with work-life balance, etc. Whatever the reason but the way that you express your response will signal your ability to be a fair and objective observer. Be honest and articulate your response with as much objectivity as can be. This means eliminating emotional responses like responses that are based solely on feelings or sentiments that are not supported by evidence.
Other questions to prepare for are "What inspired you to apply for this role?", "Why should us choose to hire the person we chose to hire?", or trick questions like "Why do us not hire you?" 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. Lead with your point and then provide a concise reason or summary as to why you responded a certain way. Then, add instances or elaborate. After you have explained thoroughly then return to your previous point.
Similarly, if you are requested to provide a description of your participation on a project or task and you are required to describe your involvement, you could apply the STAR Method, which is commonly used to respond on selection criteria. When you use STAR the first thing you need to do is write the context,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken as well as the final result.
All it is in the body language
The ability to act naturally in difficult situation can be a daunting task but it is possible to try to practice professional communication. Place yourself in front of a mirror or ask a friend you trust to ask you questions and observe your body language. Are you moving or fidgeting about nervously? Do you look intimidating, stiff, defensive or reserved in your body or speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions consistent with the message you’re trying to convey? Do you display sincerity, authenticity and genuine concern?
Consider your strengths and your weaknesses.
Prior to your interview, make sure you review the job description again. Assuming you read the job description and used the roles and responsibilities listed therein to modify and customise your resume and other selection documents, it is important to look at the job description in order to accurately package yourself for the interviewer. Be honest and upfront concerning your abilities and shortcomings. Being open about your strengths will enable interviewers to recognize your selling points as a prospective client. However, announcing your intention to address your weak points will be equally relevant.
Prepare questions
Another crucial aspect of an interview is to show genuine interest in the role and in the company. The best person to approach to ask questions of the person interviewing you is. If you noticed something interesting on the resume, or if you’ve got any questions not answered by their FAQ page or the guide questions (which are typically found within the job packet or the general page for hiring about section) Make sure to bring them up at the conclusion of the interview, when your interviewer invites you to ask questions. Some thought-provoking questions you may ask your employer
"How do I become the best person for the job, if I am given the opportunity to join you and your colleagues?"
"Does the company have any major projects underway right now"
"What are the chances to advance and further education?"
Be aware of your salary expectations
Benefits and salary packages are typically advertised along with the job (or as part of a range in the case of SEEK). But, interviewers might inquire about the amount you anticipate earning. The most important thing to do is give a range of where you would like your salary to be based instead of giving an exact, fixed amount. Keep your range tight instead of giving any wide range. For instance, if you expect to make $75,000 a year, a sensible range would be in the $73,000 to $80,000 range, or anyplace within the $10,000 range. Also, be aware of additional perks and benefits in addition to these when you consider your salary goals.
The preparation steps you have in your back pocket is essential to be prepared with the ability to tackle the most difficult questions. Be confident, self-assured and courageous.
For assistance in recruitment-related documents or credentials as well as interview preparation, you may contact Perth Resume. Our friendly and highly trained consultants can help you through your preparatory phases. Contact us now for a no-cost quote or to call us directly to speak with one of our consultants on 1300 192 621.
