A Guide to Interview Preparation
The most frightening aspects of the job search is the interview stage. The fear of an interview is a natural result of wanting to seek the approval and support of others in particular from potential employers. Although expressing their opinions about themselves might be natural for some however, many are nervous about being asked questions regarding their careers or their previous achievements. Perhaps out of modesty and the fear of being asked questions that are personal to them Interviews have become an extremely stressful parts in the process of hiring.
This does not have to be the scenario.
Interviews are the best method for applicants to show that their competencies are, their achievements, and potential. You’ve been through the first step by submitting your resume to its way through ATS scanners, and your name being shortlisted for an interview. This is the chance to showcase and further elaborate on your profile, work history and the most important skills and experience is the equivalent of getting a entrance into the interview when you convince the interviewer that you’re qualified, it boosts your chances of passing the next step of the selection process.
It is a good idea to prepare for interview questions if you’re struggling with fears about speaking about your achievements. Training is the key to success to a successful interview, and luckily, the questions can be practiced in advance. The key to flawless interviews is preparation, and here are some tips that you can follow to boost your chances at nailing that interview and impressing your future employers:
Make yourself comfortable when faced with tricky questions
Interviewers pose challenging questions partly because they want to elicit information as well as since they want to help you navigate your way out of potentially contentious questions and concerns. Consider, for instance, the question "Why are you resigning from your current role?"
The reason for this could be due to management issues, or concerns regarding work-life balance, for instance. No matter the answer, however, the manner that you express the answer will indicate your ability to be an objective and fair observer. Answer honestly and explain your reasoning with the greatest objectivity is possible. This includes removing any emotional responses such as answers that are based purely on sentiments or feelings, and do not have any basis in evidence.
Other questions to prepare for are "What made you apply for this job?", "Why should we hire you?", or trick questions like "Why do you not take you on?" The key is to not lose composure and plan your thoughts well.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Introduce your idea and follow with a brief argument or explanation of the reason you reacted in a particular manner. After that, you can add instances or elaborate. After you’ve clarified your points thoroughly then return to the point you made earlier.
Also, if requested to provide a description of your participation in a task or project, you may apply this method. STAR Method, which is often used when responding to criteria for selection. When using STAR, you must state an Situation,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken as well as the final result.
The body language
Being natural in a stressful situation could be a daunting task, but you can always practice professional communication. You can sit in front of a mirror or ask a trusted friend to inquire about your concerns and observe your body language. Are you fidgeting or shifting about with anxiety? Are you looking stiff, standoffish, defensive, or closed off in your body and speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions reflect what you want to convey? Do you display genuineness, honesty, and genuine interest?
Take a look at your strengths and your weaknesses.
Prior to the interview, make sure you review 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 document of selection, it is important to consider the job description in order to accurately present yourself to the interviewer. Be honest and upfront about your strengths and weaknesses. Being honest regarding your strengths will allow the interviewer to see your strengths as a prospect. However, showing your determination to improve your weaknesses will also be relevant.
Prepare questions
Another crucial aspect of an interview is to show genuine interest for the position and the company. The most appropriate person to ask for questions during the interview is the one you interview. If you noticed something interesting from the job descriptions or you have questions not answered by their FAQ page or their guide questions (which can be found in the job packet or in their general hiring page about section) Make sure to bring them up at the end of the interview, when your interviewer invites you to ask questions. Some of the questions you could ask your employer include:
"How do I become an ideal candidate for the task, if offered the chance to join members of your staff?"
"Does the company have any major projects in the pipeline currently"
"What are the possibilities for advancement and further training?"
Be aware of your salary expectations
The salary package and other benefits are often advertised with the job (or as part of a range when applying via SEEK). However, interviewers could be interested in knowing what you’re expecting to earn. The most important thing to do is include a range that 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 a wide margin. For instance, if you are expecting to earn $75,000 per year, a reasonable choice would be anything from the $73,000 to $80,000 area or anywhere within the $10,000 range. Consider other benefits and perks in addition to these when you think about your salary expectations.
These steps to prepare in your bag is vital to equip yourself with the confidence to answer the toughest questions. Be confident, be self-assured, and be bold.
For help with the recruitment process, documents and credentials and for the preparation for your interview, contact Perth Resume. Our professional and friendly consultants are able to assist you in your preparation phases. Contact us today for an free quote or phone us directly for a chat with one of our consultants on 1300 297 507.
