Mastering Interview Readiness
One of the most daunting aspects of job hunting is the dreaded interview round. The fear of an interview is a natural result of wanting recognition and acceptance from other people, especially from your prospective employers. While speaking about themselves may be a natural thing for some, others are apprehensive about being asked about their professional or previous successes. Perhaps out of modesty and the anxiety that comes from being asked personal questions interviews have turned out to be one of the most stressful parts in the process of hiring.
This doesn’t need to be the situation.
Interviews are the best method for applicants to showcase their abilities as well as their accomplishments and capabilities. You’ve made it through the first step, with your resume making an appearance on ATS scanners and you being considered for an interview. The chance to show and elaborate upon your profile, work history as well as the key skills and abilities is the proverbial way to get noticed: if you convince the interviewer you’re a good fit that increases your chances of getting through the next phase of the final selection process.
You can, fortunately, prepare for interviews even if you’re having concerns about presenting your achievements. Practice is key and, fortunately, interview questions can be rehearsed prior to the time. The key to a flawless interview is preparation. Here are some helpful tips you can apply to boost your chances at nailing that interview and impressing future employers:
Get comfortable around tricky questions
Interviewers are able to ask tough questions in part, to gain information and information, but also because they want to help you navigate your way out of potential contentious issues and worries. Take for example the question "Why have you decided to quit your current position?"
The answer to the question may be because of managerial issues, or worries about work-life balance. No matter the answer however, the manner the way you frame your answer will demonstrate your ability to be a fair and objective observer. Give a clear and honest explanation of your reasoning with as much objectivity as can be. This includes removing emotional responses like responses based on emotions or feelings that are not supported by evidence.
Other questions to consider are "What did you do to get this role?", "Why should be hiring you?", or trick questions like "Why do us not employ you?" 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. Lead with your point and then provide a concise note of the reason or reasons the reasons you responded in a certain manner. Next, provide specific examples or provide more details. Once you’ve explained everything thoroughly you can go back to the point you made earlier.
If you’re asked to describe your involvement in a project or task then you can use the STAR Method, which is typically used to respond to criteria for selection. If you are using STAR the first thing you need to do is write an context,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken, and lastly, the results.
It’s all in body language
Behaving naturally in a stressful situation may be difficult but it is possible to practice professional communication. You can sit in front of a mirror or ask a trusted friend to ask you questions and note your mannerisms. Are you fidgeting or shifting about nervously? Are you looking intimidating, stiff, defensive, or closed off in your body or speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions in line with the point you are trying to convey? Do you display authenticity, openness and genuine interest?
Take a look at your strengths and weak points.
Before the interview, be sure to go over the job description over again. If you have read the job description and then used the roles and duties listed therein to modify and customise your resume and other selection documents, it is important to consider the job description in order to accurately package yourself for the interviewer. Be open and honest about your strengths and weaknesses. Being truthful about your strengths can allow the interviewer to notice your strengths as a prospect. But, indicating your intention to work on your weaknesses will also be important.
Prepare questions
Another aspect to consider in the interview is showing genuine interest in the role and in the company. The best person to approach to ask questions of the person interviewing you is. If you have noticed something intriguing within the description of your job, or if you have any questions not answered by their FAQ page or guide questions (which are typically found within the job description or the general page for hiring About section) You can raise them after the interview, after your interviewer asks you to pose questions. Some thought-provoking questions you may ask your employer are:
"How can I be the most qualified person for this task, if given the opportunity to work with members of your staff?"
"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
Benefits and salary packages are often advertised with the position (or on a list for those applying through SEEK). However, interviewers may still inquire about the amount you are expecting. One important tip is to offer a range within which you’d like your salary to fall instead of offering an exact number or a set amount. Be sure to keep the limit to a narrow range instead of providing a wide margin. For instance, if you expect to make $75,000 a year, a reasonable choice would be anything from the $73,000 to $80,000 area or anywhere within the $10,000 range. Also, be aware of other perks and benefits in addition to these when you evaluate your salary goals.
Having these preparatory steps in your back pocket is essential for ensuring you are in readiness to face the toughest questions. Be confident, be self-assured and be courageous.
For assistance in recruitment-related documents or credentials as well as the preparation for your interview, get in touch with Perth Resume. Our highly skilled and knowledgeable consultants will be able to help you with your interview preparation steps. Contact us now for your free quotation or phone us directly for a chat with one of our experts on 1300 202 475.
