A Guide to Interview Preparation
Perhaps the most daunting aspects of the job search is the daunting interview process. Fear of being interviewed is a natural consequence of seeking approval and validation from others and especially your potential employers. Although talking about oneself may be natural for some however, many are nervous about being asked questions about their professional or previous successes. Perhaps it is because of modesty or the anxiety that comes from being asked to answer personal questions The interview process has evolved into one of the most intimidating parts of the hiring process.
This doesn’t need to be the scenario.
Interviews are a great way for the applicant to showcase their abilities, achievements, and potentials. You’ve already completed the initial step and your resume has made an appearance on ATS scanners and you being selected for an interview. This chance to present and further elaborate on your resume, experience and the most important skills and experience is the equivalent of getting a foot in the door: if you convince the interviewer you have what it takes this increases your chances to be selected for the next phase of the final selection process.
It is a good idea to prepare for interviews even if you’re having doubts about speaking about your own achievements. Training is the key to success, and fortunately, interview questions can be practiced before the date. The key to flawless interviews is preparation, and here are some suggestions you can use to increase your chances of aceing that interview and impressing future employers.
Be comfortable with difficult questions
Interviewers pose challenging questions partially because they wish to gain information as well as since they want to help you come out of potentially contentious topics and issues. For instance, consider the question "Why are you resigning from your current job?"
The reason for this may be because of managerial issues, or worries about work-life balance. No matter the answer, however, the manner the way you frame your response will signal your ability to be an objective and fair observer. Give a clear and honest explanation of your reasoning with as much objectivity as feasible. This means removing all emotional responses, like responses based on emotions or feelings and are not substantiated by facts.
Other important questions to ask are "What inspired you to apply for this position?", "Why should us choose to hire your services?", or trick questions like "Why should we not hire you?" The key is not to lose your cool and organise your thoughts carefully.
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 why you responded a certain manner. Next, provide examples or further elaborate. After you’ve clarified your points thoroughly, go back to your previous point.
Similarly, if you are asked to describe your involvement in a project or task then you can employ the STAR Method, which is often used when responding on selection criteria. If you are using STAR you will need to write an Situation,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken, and lastly, the result.
All it is in the body language
Behaving naturally in a stressful situation may be difficult but it is possible to learn to communicate professionally. Put yourself in front of the mirror or ask a trusted friend to ask questions and observe your behavior. Are you moving or fidgeting around with a nervousness? Do you look uneasy, aggressive or reserved in your body language? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions consistent with what you want to convey? Do you display sincerity, authenticity and genuine interest?
Think about your strengths and weaknesses.
Prior to your interview, be sure to read the job description again. If you have read the job description and then used the roles and responsibilities outlined in it to alter and personalize your resume as well as other selection documents It is crucial to look at the job description to clearly package yourself for the interviewer. Be upfront and honest concerning your abilities and shortcomings. Being open about your strengths will allow the interviewer to see your selling points as a potential client. However, showing your determination to address your weaknesses will also be important.
Prepare questions
Another important aspect of the interview is showing genuine enthusiasm about the job and the business. The best person to approach is the interviewer. If you have noticed something intriguing in the job description, or if you’ve got any concerns that weren’t answered by their FAQ page or guide questions (which are typically found within the job description or their general hiring page about section), raise these at the end of the interview when the interviewer is encouraging you to ask questions. Some of the questions you could ask your employer include:
"How do I become the most qualified person for this job, if I am given the chance to work with the team?"
"Does the company have any major projects underway right now"
"What are the opportunities to advance and further education?"
Know what your salary expectations are.
Salary packages and other benefits are generally advertised with the job (or in a variety, for those applying through SEEK). However, the interviewer may inquire about the amount you expect to earn. The most important thing to do is provide a range in which you’d like your earnings to fall instead of offering an exact, fixed amount. Be sure to keep the range tight instead of giving an expansive margin. For instance, if you think you will earn $75,000 in a year, a good range would be in the $73,000 to $80,000 range, or anything in the range of $10,000. Be mindful of additional perks and benefits in addition to these when you think about your salary goals.
Having these preparatory steps in your purse is important for ensuring you are in confidence to answer the toughest questions. Be confident, feel confident and bold.
To assist with recruitment-related documents or credentials as well as interviews, please get in touch with Perth Resume. Our professional and friendly consultants will be able to help you through your preparatory steps. Contact us now for your complimentary quote or call us direct for a chat with one of our consultants on 1300 648 974.
