Steps to Interview Readiness
A major and difficult aspects of the job search is the interview stage. Fear of being interviewed is a natural consequence of seeking approval and validation from others particularly from prospective employers. Although expressing their opinions about themselves might come naturally to some people but others feel nervous about being asked questions regarding their work or prior achievements. Perhaps due to modesty or the discomfort that comes with being asked personal questions, the interview has become an extremely intimidating aspects in the process of hiring.
This doesn’t have to be the situation.
Interviews are the best means for the candidate to showcase their abilities are, their achievements, and potential. You’ve completed the initial step and your resume has made its way through ATS scanners and being shortlisted for an interview. This is the chance to showcase and elaborate on your profile, work history and the most important skills and abilities is the proverbial way to get noticed when you convince the interviewer you’re qualified you increase your odds of getting through to the next step in the selection process.
There is no need to be worried about preparing for interview questions if you’re struggling with fears about speaking about your accomplishments. The practice is essential to a successful interview, and luckily, the questions can be practiced before the date. The key to a flawless interview is preparation, and here are some tips that you can apply to boost your chances of nailing the interview and impressing your potential employers.
Get comfortable around tricky questions
Interviewers pose challenging questions partly because they want to elicit information as well as because they want to help how you can get rid of potential contentious issues and worries. For instance, consider the question "Why do you want to leave your current position?"
The answer to the question may be because of problems with management, or concerns regarding work-life balance, for instance. Whatever the reason however, the manner the way you frame your answer will show your ability to be a fair and objective observer. Respond honestly and explain your answer in the most objective way possible. This means eliminating any emotional responses , such as responses that are based solely on feelings or sentiments and are not substantiated by facts.
Other questions to prepare for are "What did you do to get this position?", "Why should we choose you?", or trick questions like "Why do us not employ you?" The key is to stay calm and organise your thoughts carefully.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Start with your statement and then provide a concise note of the reason or reasons why you responded a certain manner. Next, provide details or go into more detail. After you have explained thoroughly you can go back to your original point.
If you’re required to explain your participation in a project or task, you may apply the STAR Method, which is also usually used in responding to criteria for selection. When using STAR it is necessary to describe the context,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken as well as the Result.
It’s all in the body language
Acting naturally in a difficult situation can be difficult but it is possible to practice professional communication. Sit in front of a mirror or ask a trusted friend to ask questions and observe your body language. Are you flitting or shifting about with anxiety? Do you look intimidating, stiff, defensive or shut off in your body language? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions in line with what you want to convey? Do you show authenticity, openness and genuine concern?
Think about your strengths and your weaknesses.
Before the interview, make sure you go over the job description again. In the event that you’ve read the description and applied the roles and responsibilities listed therein to modify and customise your resume and other document of selection It is essential to think about the job description to clearly package yourself for the interviewer. Be honest and upfront regarding your weaknesses and strengths. Being honest regarding your strengths will allow the interviewer to notice your selling points as a prospect. But, indicating your intention to address your weak points will be equally relevant.
Prepare questions
Another key aspect of the interview is to show genuine interest for the position and the business. The best person to approach is the interviewer. If you noticed something interesting in the job description or if you have any questions that have not been answered by their FAQ page or their guide questions (which are usually found in the job packet or their general hiring page About section) Make sure to bring them up at the conclusion of the interview, after your interviewer invites you to ask questions. The most interesting questions you could ask your employer include:
"How can I be the most suitable person for the task, if given the opportunity to join the team?"
"Does the company have any major projects underway in the present"
"What are the chances for advancement and further training?"
Know what your salary expectations are.
Benefits and salary packages are usually advertised alongside the position (or as part of a range, if applying through SEEK). However, interviewers may still be interested in knowing what you’re expecting to earn. One important tip is to give a range of where you’d like your salary to fall instead of offering an exact or set number. Make sure to keep your range tight instead of giving an expansive margin. For example, if you are expecting to earn $75,000 per year, a good choice would be anything from the $73,000 to $80,000 or anything in the range of $10,000. Also, be aware of additional perks and benefits too and think about these when you think about your salary expectations.
Having these preparatory steps in your bag is vital to equip yourself with the confidence to answer the toughest questions. Be confident, self-assured, and be bold.
For assistance in recruitment-related documents and credentials , and also for interviews, please reach out to Perth Resume. Our highly skilled and knowledgeable consultants are able to assist you in your preparation phases. Contact us now for the free quote or call us direct to speak with one of our experts on 1300 290 659.
