Interview Preparation Tactics
Perhaps the most intimidating aspect of job hunts is the fear of an interview. The fear of an interview is a natural result of wanting approval and validation from others, especially from your prospective employers. While expressing themselves in a positive manner may come naturally to some people however, many are nervous about being asked about their work or prior successes. Perhaps it is because of modesty or the anxiety that comes from being asked to answer personal questions, the interview has become one of the biggest and most intimidating aspects during the selection process.
It doesn’t have to be the scenario.
Interviews are a crucial means for the candidate to demonstrate their skills are, their achievements, and potential. You have already made it through the first step, with your resume making its way through ATS scanners and being selected for an interview. This opportunity to present and elaborate on one’s profile, employment history, and key skills and knowledge is the aforementioned way to get noticed If you can convince the interviewer you’re a good fit that increases your chances of passing to the next step in the selection process.
There is no need to be worried about preparing for interviews if you have concerns about presenting your personal achievements. Practice is key and luckily, interview questions can be rehearsed before the date. The key to flawless interviews is preparation, and here are some helpful tips you can follow to boost your chances at nailing that interview and impressing future employers:
Be comfortable with difficult questions
Interviewers pose challenging questions in part, to gain information, but also, since they want to help how you can get rid of potentially contentious issues and issues. Take for example the question "Why are you leaving your current job?"
The answer to the question could be due to problems with management, or concerns regarding work-life balance, for instance. No matter the answer but the way the way you frame your answer will demonstrate your capacity to be an objective and fair observer. Respond honestly and explain your responses in the most objective way can be. This means removing emotional responses like responses based on feelings or sentiments and are not supported by actual facts.
Other questions to consider are "What motivated you to apply for this job?", "Why should be hiring your services?", or trick questions like "Why do you not employ you?" The key is to remain calm and plan your thoughts well.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Begin with your topic and follow up with a short note of the reason or reasons the reason you reacted in a particular way. Next, provide examples or further elaborate. After you have explained thoroughly the topic, return to your original point.
Similarly, if you are requested to provide a description of your participation in a task or project it is possible to utilize the STAR Method, which is also usually used in responding on selection criteria. If you are using STAR you will need to write the Situation,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken as well as the results.
It’s all in the body language
Being natural in a stressful situation could be a challenge, but you can always make sure you are practicing professional communication. Put yourself in front of the mirror or have a trusted companion to ask questions of you and observe your body language. Are you shifting or fidgeting about nervously? Do you seem intimidating, stiff, defensive or shut off in your body and speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions consistent with the point you are trying to make? Do you communicate authenticity, openness and genuine enthusiasm?
Be aware of your strengths and weaknesses
Prior to the interview, you should read the description of the position. If you have read the job description and utilized the roles and responsibilities listed in it to alter and personalize your resume as well as other selection documents It is crucial to review the job description and how you will describe yourself to the interviewer. Be candid and open on your strength and weakness. Being honest regarding your strengths will allow the interviewer to see your unique selling points as a potential customer. However, showing your determination to address your weaknesses will also be notable.
Prepare questions
Another important aspect of the interview is showing genuine enthusiasm for the position and the company. The best person to inquire is the interviewer. If you noticed something interesting in the job description or if 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) Bring them up after the interview when the interviewer is encouraging you to ask questions. Some of the questions you could ask your employer:
"How do I become the best person for the task, if offered the chance to work alongside the team?"
"Does the company has any major projects going on at the moment"
"What are the potential opportunities to advance and further education?"
Know your salary expectations
Benefits and salary packages are generally advertised with the job (or in a variety for those applying through SEEK). But, interviewers might ask you how much you’re expecting to earn. The most important thing to do is offer a range within which you’d like your earnings to be based instead of giving an exact, fixed amount. Be sure to keep the range as narrow as possible instead of offering a the possibility of a large margin. For instance, if you expect to make $75,000 a year, a reasonable range is anywhere between the $73,000 to $80,000 area or anyplace within the $10,000 range. Consider other perks and benefits also and take these into consideration when you consider your salary goals.
Having these preparatory steps in your bag is vital to be prepared with the confidence to answer the toughest questions. Be confident, be self-assured and be courageous.
To assist with recruitment-related documents and certificates, as well as for interview preparation, reach out to Perth Resume. Our professional and friendly consultants are able to help you with your interview preparation steps. Contact us today to receive your free quotation or to call us directly to speak with one of our consultants on 1300 648 974.
