Interview Preparation Tactics
One of the most intimidating aspects of the job search is the dreaded interview round. Fear of being interviewed is a natural consequence of seeking acceptance and approval from others particularly from prospective employers. While expressing themselves in a positive manner may come naturally to some people, others are apprehensive about being asked about their careers or their previous accomplishments. Perhaps because of modesty, or the anxiety that comes from being asked personal questions Interviews have become an extremely stressful parts of the hiring process.
This doesn’t have to be the case.
Interviews are the best method for applicants to showcase their abilities are, their achievements, and potential. You’ve already passed the first step by submitting your resume to its way through ATS scanners and your name being selected for an interview. This chance to present and elaborate on your profile, work history as well as key abilities and experience is the equivalent of getting a entrance into the interview If you can convince the interviewer you’re the right candidate you increase your odds of getting through the next stage of the selection process.
There is no need to be worried about preparing for interviews in case you’re experiencing apprehensions about talking about your accomplishments. Practice is key and luckily, interview questions can be practiced prior to the time. The key to a flawless interview is preparation, and here are some guidelines you can apply to boost your chances of aceing that interview and impressing your potential employers.
Get comfortable around tricky questions.
Interviewers will ask you tough questions, mostly because they are trying to elicit information and information, but also in order to help how you can get rid of potentially contentious issues and worries. For instance, consider the question "Why do you want to leave your current job?"
The answer to this question could be due to management concerns, or issues regarding work-life balance, for instance. Whatever the reason but the way that you express your answer will show your ability to be a fair and objective observer. Give a clear and honest explanation of your response using as much objectivity is possible. This means that you should eliminate any emotional responses , such as responses that are based solely on feelings or sentiments that are not supported by factual evidence.
Other questions to consider include "What made you apply for this role?", "Why should we choose the person we chose to hire?", or trick questions like "Why do you not take you on?" The key is to remain calm and arrange your thoughts with care.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Start with your statement and then provide a concise argument or explanation of the reasons you responded in a certain manner. Add details or go into more detail. Once you’ve thoroughly explained you can go back to your previous point.
In the same way, if you’re asked to write about your involvement in a task or project, you may utilize an approach called the STAR Method, which is often used when responding on selection criteria. In using STAR it is necessary to describe the Situation,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken followed by the result.
It’s all in body language
Acting naturally in a stressful situation could be a tall order however, you can practice professional communication. Put yourself in front of the mirror or ask a friend you trust to ask questions and observe your behavior. Are you flitting or shifting around with a nervousness? Do you look rigid, aloof, defensive, or closed off in your body language? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions consistent with what you want to make? Do you display openness, sincerity, and genuine interest?
Think about your strengths and weaknesses.
Prior to the interview, make sure you go over the job description once more. In the event that you’ve read the description and applied the roles and responsibilities described in the description to make changes to your resume and other documents for selection It is imperative to review the job description to clearly package yourself for the interviewer. Be upfront and honest about your strengths and weaknesses. Being realistic regarding your strengths will allow interviewers to recognize your unique selling points as a prospect. However, signalling your intent to improve your weak points will be equally relevant.
Prepare questions
Another key aspect of the interview is showing genuine interest about the job and the company. The most appropriate person to ask is the interviewer. If you’ve seen something that’s interesting within the description of your job or if you’ve got any questions that were left unanswered on their FAQ page or the guide questions (which can be found in the job packet or the general page for hiring About section) Bring them up at the conclusion of the interview when the interviewer is encouraging you to ask questions. The most interesting questions you could ask your employer include:
"How do I become an ideal candidate for the jobif given the chance to work alongside your team?"
"Does the company have any major projects underway at the moment"
"What are the possibilities for further development and training?"
Know what your salary expectations are.
Benefits and salary packages are often advertised with the job (or in a variety, in the case of SEEK). But, interviewers might ask you how much you are expecting. An important point to remember is to give a range of where you would like your salary to be based instead of giving an exact, fixed amount. Be sure to keep the limit to a narrow range instead of providing the possibility of a large margin. For example, if you are expecting to earn $75,000 per year, an appropriate choice would be anything from the $73,000 to $80,000 or anything in the range of $10,000. Be aware of any other perks and benefits too and think about these when you consider your salary expectations.
Having these preparatory steps in your bag is vital to equip yourself with the ability to tackle the most difficult questions. Be confident, feel confident and courageous.
For assistance in recruitment-related documents or credentials as well as interviews, please get in touch with Perth Resume. Our friendly and highly trained consultants are able to help you with your interview preparation stages. Contact us now for an no-cost quote or phone us directly for a chat with one of our experts on 1300 648 974.
