Interview Readiness Blueprint
One of the most daunting aspects of job searching is the interview stage. It is a normal result of wanting recognition and acceptance from other people, especially from your prospective employers. Although talking about oneself may be a natural thing for some but others feel nervous about being asked about their work or prior achievements. Perhaps because of modesty, or the anxiety that comes from being asked personal questions, the interview has become among the more stressful parts of the hiring process.
This does not have to be the scenario.
Interviews are a great method for applicants to showcase their abilities have been demonstrated, as well as their potential. You have already been through the first step by submitting your resume to the cut through ATS scanners and your name being shortlisted for an interview. This is the chance to showcase and elaborate on your resume, experience and the most important skills and expertise is the proverbial way to get noticed If you can convince the interviewer that you’re a good fit that increases your chances to be selected for the next stage of the selection process.
There is no need to be worried about preparing for interviews if you have apprehensions about talking about your achievements. Practice is key to a successful interview, and luckily, the questions can be practiced ahead of time. The secret to successful interviews is preparation. Here are some tips that you can follow to boost your chances of aceing that interview and impressing your future employers:
Learn to be comfortable around difficult questions.
Interviewers are able to ask tough questions partly because they want to gather information, but also, since they want to help you get out of potentially contentious topics and issues. Take for example the question "Why do you want to leave your current role?"
The answer to this question could be due to managerial issues, or worries regarding work-life balance, for instance. No matter the answer, however, the manner the way you frame the answer will indicate your capacity to be an objective and fair observer. Answer honestly and explain your reasoning with as much objectivity as can be. This means eliminating any emotional responses such as responses that are based solely on feelings or sentiments and do not have any basis in evidence.
Other questions to prepare for are "What motivated you to apply for this job?", "Why should us choose to hire you?", or trick questions like "Why should you not hire you?" The key is to stay calm and plan your thoughts well.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Start with your statement and then follow it up with a short argument or explanation of the reasons you responded in a certain manner. After that, you can add details or go into more detail. After you have explained thoroughly then return to the previous section.
Similarly, if you are asked to describe your involvement in a project or task it is possible to apply to describe your involvement in a project or task, you can use the STAR Method, which is often used when responding to criteria for selection. When you use STAR you will need to write an situation,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken followed by the final result.
The body language
Being natural in a stressful situation could be a tall order, but you can always practice professional communication. Place yourself in front of a mirror or ask a trusted friend to ask questions of you and observe your body language. Are you flitting or shifting around in a tense manner? Do you seem uneasy, aggressive or reserved 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?
Be aware of your strengths and weaknesses.
Before the interview, ensure that you review the job description once more. Assuming you read the job description and applied the roles and duties listed within to customize and modify your resume and other selection documents It is imperative to review the job description to honestly present yourself to the interviewer. Be honest and upfront regarding your weaknesses and strengths. Being truthful about your strengths can allow the interviewer to note your strengths as a prospective client. But, indicating your intention to address your weak points will be equally significant.
Prepare questions
Another crucial aspect of an interview is showing genuine enthusiasm about the job and the business. The best person to ask questions is your interviewer. If you noticed something interesting from the job descriptions, or if you have questions that were left unanswered by their FAQ page or guide questions (which typically are found in the job packet or the general page for hiring about section) Bring them up at the end of the interview, after your interviewer invites you to ask questions. Some thought-provoking questions you may ask your employer are:
"How do I become the best person for the job, if I am given the chance to work alongside the team?"
"Does the company has any major projects going on right now"
"What are the potential opportunities for further development and training?"
Know your salary expectations
Other benefits and packages for salary are often advertised with the job (or on a list, for those applying through SEEK). But, interviewers might ask you how much you expect to earn. A good tip is to include a range that you would like your salary to be based instead of giving an exact or set number. Make sure to keep your limits to a certain extent instead of allowing a an expansive margin. For example, if you think you will earn $75,000 in a year, a sensible range is anywhere between the $73,000 to $80,000 range, or anything in the range of $10,000. Consider other perks and benefits also and take these into consideration when you consider your salary goals.
These steps to prepare in your purse is important for ensuring you are in capability to handle the toughest questions. Be confident, confident, and confident, and be bold.
For help with the recruitment process, documents and certificates, as well as for interview preparation, you may contact Perth Resume. Our friendly and highly trained consultants can help you with your interview preparation phases. Contact us today to receive your complimentary quote or phone us directly for a chat with one of our consultants on 1300 290 659.
