Strategies for Interview Success
The most frightening aspects of the job search is the daunting interview process. Interview fear is a natural consequence of seeking approval and validation from others particularly from prospective employers. Although talking about oneself may be a natural thing for some, others are apprehensive about being asked questions regarding their work or prior achievements. Perhaps it is because of modesty or the fear of being asked to answer personal questions Interviews have become among the more intimidating parts that are required to hire.
This does not have to be the scenario.
Interviews are an important means for the candidate to show that their competencies as well as their accomplishments and capabilities. You’ve made it through the first step with your resume passing an appearance on ATS scanners and being shortlisted for an interview. The chance to show and further elaborate on the profile of your employer, background as well as the key skills and knowledge is the aforementioned way to get noticed If you can convince the interviewer you’re the right candidate, it boosts your chances of passing through the next phase of the selection process.
It is a good idea to prepare for interviews even if you’re having apprehensions about talking about your personal achievements. It is important to practice to a successful interview, and luckily, the questions can be rehearsed before the date. The secret to successful interviews is preparation. Here are some suggestions you can apply to boost your chances of getting through that interview and impressing your future employers.
Make yourself comfortable when faced with tricky questions
Interviewers pose challenging questions mostly because they are trying to gather information, but also, because they want to help you get out of potentially contentious questions and issues. Take for example the question "Why are you resigning from your current role?"
The answer could be due to management issues, or concerns about work-life balance. Whatever the reason however, the manner in which you phrase your response will signal your ability to be a fair and objective observer. Give a clear and honest explanation of your responses using as much objectivity feasible. This means eliminating any emotional responses , such as answers based on emotions or feelings and are not supported by facts.
Other questions to be prepared for are "What inspired you to apply for this position?", "Why should us choose to hire the person we chose to hire?", or trick questions like "Why do be able to not employ you?" The key is to stay calm and arrange your thoughts with care.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Lead with your point and follow up with a short explanation or a brief summary of the reason you reacted in a particular way. After that, you can add examples or further elaborate. After you’ve clarified your points thoroughly the topic, return to the point you made earlier.
In the same way, if you’re asked to write about your involvement on a project or task it is possible to use the STAR Method, which is typically used to respond to selection criteria. In using STAR it is necessary to describe an Situation,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken, and lastly, the Result.
The body language
Acting naturally in a stressful environment can be difficult However, you can practice professional communication. Sit in front of a mirror or ask a trusted friend to ask you questions and take note of your actions. Are you flitting or shifting around with a nervousness? Do you seem stiff, standoffish, defensive or shut off in your body expression? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions reflect the point you are trying to convey? Do you convey authenticity, openness and genuine interest?
Take a look at your strengths and weaknesses
Prior to the interview, make sure you read the job description once more. If you have read the job description and then used the roles and responsibilities described therein to modify and customise your resume and other documents for selection It is essential to consider the job description to clearly describe yourself to the interviewer. Be upfront and honest regarding your weaknesses and strengths. Being open about your strengths can allow the interviewer to note your selling points as a prospective client. But, indicating your intention to work on your weak points will be equally notable.
Prepare questions
Another key aspect of the interview is showing genuine interest in the role and in the business. The best person to inquire for questions during the interview is the one you interview. If you have noticed something intriguing on the resume, or if you’ve got any questions that were left unanswered on their FAQ page or their guide questions (which are typically found within the job description or their general hiring page About section) You can raise them during the interview, when your interviewer asks you to pose questions. Some thought-provoking questions you may ask your employer include:
"How do I become an ideal candidate for the jobif offered the chance to be part of you and your colleagues?"
"Does the company has any major projects going on currently"
"What are the potential opportunities to further develop and learn?"
Know what your salary expectations are.
The salary package and other benefits are typically advertised along with the position (or within a set of options when applying via SEEK). However, interviewers could be interested in knowing what you are expecting. One important tip is to give a range of where you would like your salary to fall instead of offering an exact or set number. Try to keep your range as narrow as possible instead of offering a the possibility of a large margin. For example, if you anticipate earning $75,000 per year, a good choice would be anything from the $73,000 to $80,000 range, or anyplace within the $10,000 range. Consider additional perks and benefits too and think about these when you evaluate your salary expectations.
These steps to prepare in your purse is important to equip yourself with the confidence to answer the toughest questions. Be confident, feel confident and bold.
To assist with recruitment-related documents and credentials and for interview preparation, get in touch with Perth Resume. Our knowledgeable and professional consultants will be able to help you with your interview preparation steps. Contact us today for a complimentary quote or to call us directly for a chat with one of our consultants at 1300 290 659.
