Strategies for Interview Success
One of the most intimidating aspects of the job search is the fear of an interview. Fear of being interviewed is a natural consequence of seeking recognition and acceptance from other people and especially your potential employers. While speaking about themselves may come naturally to some people but others feel nervous about being asked questions regarding their work or prior successes. Perhaps out of modesty and the fear of being asked to answer personal questions interviews have turned out to be among the more stressful parts that are required to hire.
This doesn’t have to be the scenario.
Interviews are a great way for the applicant to prove their capabilities are, their achievements, and potential. You’ve passed the first step with your resume passing the cut through ATS scanners and your name being considered for an interview. This chance to present and elaborate on your profile, work history as well as the key skills and expertise is the proverbial step to the front and if you can convince the interviewer you’re qualified you increase your odds of passing through to the next step in the final selection process.
There is no need to be worried about preparing for interview questions if you’re struggling with doubts about speaking 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. Here are some guidelines you can implement to improve your chances of getting through that interview and impressing potential employers.
Learn to be comfortable around difficult questions
Interviewers ask challenging questions, mostly because they are trying to gain information as well as since they want to help you navigate your way out of potentially contentious questions and worries. Take for example the question "Why do you want to leave your current role?"
The reason for this may be because of problems with management, or concerns regarding work-life balance, for instance. No matter the answer but the way that you express your answer will demonstrate your capacity to be an objective and fair observer. Be honest and articulate your answer with as much objectivity as can be. This means removing any emotional responses such as answers that are based purely on feelings or sentiments and do not have any basis in facts.
Other important questions to ask include "What inspired you to apply for this job?", "Why should be hiring us?", or trick questions like "Why should we not employ you?" The key is to stay calm 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 follow it up with a short argument or explanation of the reason you reacted in a particular manner. Next, provide specific examples or provide more details. After you have explained thoroughly, go back to the previous section.
Similarly, if you are requested to provide a description of your participation in a particular project or task, you may use the STAR Method, which is often used when responding on selection criteria. When you use STAR the first thing you need to do is write the context,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken then the result.
All it is in the body language
The ability to act naturally in stressful environment can be a daunting task but it is possible to learn to communicate professionally. Sit in front of a mirror or ask a friend you trust to inquire about your concerns and observe your behavior. Are you shifting or fidgeting about with anxiety? Are you looking intimidating, stiff, defensive, or closed off in your body language? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions consistent with the point you are trying to make? Do you show openness, sincerity and genuine enthusiasm?
Consider your strengths and your weaknesses.
Before you go to the interview, ensure that you review the description of the position. In the event that you’ve read the description and used the roles and responsibilities listed in it to alter and personalize your resume and other documents for selection It is imperative to think about the job description and how you will prepare yourself for interviewers. Be upfront and honest concerning your abilities and shortcomings. Being honest about your strengths will allow the interviewer to note your strengths as a prospective client. However, announcing your intention to work on your weaknesses will also be relevant.
Prepare questions
Another aspect to consider in the interview is showing genuine interest in the job and within the company. The best person to ask to ask questions of the person interviewing you is. If you noticed something interesting within the description of your job or if you have any questions that were left unanswered on their FAQ page or guide questions (which can be found in the job packet or in the general page for hiring about section) Bring them up after the interview, after your interviewer invites you to ask questions. The most interesting questions you could ask your employer
"How can I be the most suitable person for the task, if offered the chance to work with you and your colleagues?"
"Does the company have any major projects in the pipeline at the moment"
"What are the potential opportunities for further development and training?"
Know what your salary expectations are.
The salary package and other benefits are generally advertised with the position (or on a list, in the case of SEEK). However, interviewers may still ask you how much you are expecting. One important tip is to give a range of where you’d like your pay to fall instead of offering an exact or set number. Keep your limits to a certain extent instead of allowing a 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 anywhere within the $10,000 range. Also, be aware of other perks and benefits too and think about these when you think about your salary expectations.
The preparation steps you have in your bag is vital for ensuring you are in readiness to face the toughest questions. Be confident, confident, and confident, and be bold.
For assistance in recruitment-related documents and certificates, as well as for interviews, please get in touch with Perth Resume. Our friendly and highly trained consultants are able to help you through your preparatory phases. Contact us today to receive your free quote or contact us directly for a chat with one of our consultants at 1300 648 974.
