Steps to Interview Readiness
The most frightening aspect of job hunts is the interview stage. Interview fear is a natural consequence of seeking approval and validation from others and especially your potential employers. Although expressing their opinions about themselves might be a natural thing for some, others are apprehensive about being asked questions about their career or past accomplishments. Perhaps because of modesty, or the discomfort arising from being asked questions about their personal life Interviews have become one of the most intimidating aspects that are required to hire.
This doesn’t need to be the situation.
Interviews are a great means for the candidate to show that their competencies as well as their accomplishments and capabilities. You have already passed the first step with your resume passing the cut through ATS scanners and being selected for an interview. This chance to present and elaborate upon your profile, work history as well as the key skills and expertise is the proverbial foot in the door: if you convince the interviewer that you have what it takes, it boosts your chances to be selected for the next step of the final selection process.
It is a good idea to prepare for interviews if you have doubts about speaking about your accomplishments. Practice is key, and fortunately, interview questions can be rehearsed in advance. The key to a flawless interview is preparation. Here are some guidelines you can follow to boost your chances of getting through that interview and impressing your future employers.
Learn to be comfortable around difficult questions.
Interviewers pose challenging questions mostly because they are trying to elicit information, but also, since they want to help you get out of potentially contentious topics and concerns. Consider for instance the question "Why do you want to leave your current position?"
The reason for this may be because of problems with management, or concerns about the balance between work and life, etc. Whatever the reason however, the manner the way you frame the answer will indicate your ability to be a fair and objective observer. Be honest and articulate your reasoning with the greatest objectivity possible. This means eliminating all emotional responses, like answers based on sentiments or feelings, and do not have any basis in actual facts.
Other questions to be prepared for are "What inspired you to apply for this role?", "Why should us choose to hire you?", or trick questions like "Why do we not take you on?" The key is not to lose your cool and arrange your thoughts with care.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Begin with your topic and then provide a concise reason or summary as to the reason you reacted in a particular manner. After that, you can add instances or elaborate. Once you’ve thoroughly explained, go back to your previous point.
In the same way, if you’re requested to provide a description of your participation on a project or task then you can employ the STAR Method, which is typically used to respond the selection requirements. If you are using STAR, you must state an Situation,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken as well as the results.
The body language
The ability to act naturally in stressful environment can be difficult however, you can practice professional communication. Place yourself in front of a mirror or ask a trusted friend to ask questions of you and observe your behavior. Are you moving or fidgeting around with a nervousness? Do you appear rigid, aloof, defensive or aloof in your body expression? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions reflect what you want to make? Do you communicate authenticity, openness and genuine concern?
Be aware of your strengths and your weaknesses.
Before the interview, be sure to go over the description of the position. Assuming you read the job description and utilized the roles and responsibilities described in it to alter and personalize your resume as well as other selection documents, it is important to look at the job description in order to accurately present yourself to the interviewer. Be upfront and honest on your strength and weakness. Being realistic regarding your strengths will allow the interviewer to see your selling points as a potential customer. But, indicating your intention to improve your weaknesses is just as significant.
Prepare questions
Another aspect to consider in the interview is to show genuine interest for the position and the company. The most appropriate person to ask is the interviewer. If you noticed something interesting on the resume, or if you’ve got any questions not answered by their FAQ page or guide questions (which are usually found in the job application or their general hiring page About section), raise these at the conclusion of the interview when the interviewer encourages you to ask questions. Some thought-provoking questions you may ask your employer:
"How can I be the most suitable person for the jobif offered the chance to be part of members of your staff?"
"Does the company have any major projects in the pipeline at the moment"
"What are the opportunities to further develop and learn?"
Know your salary expectations
Salary packages and other benefits are often advertised with the position (or within a set of options, if applying through SEEK). However, interviewers may still ask you how much you are expecting. One important tip is to give a range of where you would like your salary to be based instead of giving an exact number or a set amount. Keep your range as narrow as possible instead of offering a an expansive margin. For instance, if are expecting to earn $75,000 per year, an appropriate range would be in the $73,000 to $80,000 area or anyplace within the $10,000 range. Be aware of any additional perks and benefits in addition to these when you consider your salary goals.
The preparation steps you have in your bag is vital to equip yourself with the ability to tackle the most difficult questions. Be confident, confident, and confident, and be bold.
To assist with recruitment-related documents and certificates, as well as for interview preparation, you may get in touch with Perth Resume. Our highly skilled and knowledgeable consultants can help you with your interview preparation stages. Contact us today to receive an free quotation or to call us directly for a chat with one of our experts on 1300 290 659.
