Ready Yourself for Interviews
A major and difficult aspect of job hunts is the interview stage. Fear of being interviewed is a natural consequence of seeking acceptance and approval from others and especially your potential employers. Although talking about oneself may be natural for some but others feel nervous about being asked questions about their work or prior successes. Perhaps it is because of modesty or the discomfort arising from being asked questions about their personal life The interview process has evolved into one of the most intimidating parts in the process of hiring.
It doesn’t have to be the case.
Interviews are a great way for the applicant to demonstrate their skills, achievements, and potentials. You’ve already been through the first step and your resume has made its way through ATS scanners and being considered for an interview. This chance to present and elaborate on your profile, work history and the most important skills and abilities is the proverbial step to the front If you can convince the interviewer that you’re qualified you increase your odds of passing the next phase of the final selection process.
It is a good idea to prepare for interview questions if you’re struggling with doubts about speaking about your own achievements. The practice is essential and luckily, interview questions can be rehearsed before the date. The key to a flawless interview is preparation. Here are some tips that you can apply to boost your chances of nailing the interview and impressing future employers:
Learn to be comfortable around difficult questions
Interviewers will ask you tough questions, partially because they wish to elicit information however, also in order to help you navigate your way out of potential contentious issues and concerns. Take for example the question "Why have you decided to quit your current role?"
The reason for this may be because of management issues, or concerns regarding work-life balance, for instance. No matter the answer however, the manner that you formulate your answer will show your capacity to be an objective and fair observer. Answer honestly and explain your response using as much objectivity is possible. This includes removing any emotional responses , such as answers that are based purely on feelings or sentiments that are not supported by actual facts.
Other questions to prepare for are "What made you apply for this position?", "Why should us choose to hire us?", or trick questions like "Why should we not take you on?" The key is not to lose your cool and plan your thoughts well.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Introduce your idea and follow up with a short reason or summary as to the reason you reacted in a particular way. After that, you can add specific examples or provide more details. After you’ve clarified your points thoroughly the topic, return to your previous point.
Similarly, if you are asked to describe your involvement in a project or task, you may apply the STAR Method, which is typically used to respond on selection criteria. When you use STAR it is necessary to describe the Situation,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken, and lastly, the Result.
The body language
Being natural in a stressful situation may be a challenge but it is possible to learn to communicate professionally. You can sit in front of a mirror or ask a friend you trust to ask you questions and take note of your actions. Are you moving or fidgeting about with anxiety? Do you look uneasy, aggressive or aloof in your body or speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions in line with the message you’re trying to convey? Do you communicate sincerity, authenticity and genuine concern?
Consider your strengths and weak points.
Prior to the interview, be sure to review the job description again. Assuming you read the job description and used the roles and responsibilities listed therein to modify and customise your resume and other selection documents It is crucial to consider the job description to clearly prepare yourself for interviewers. Be open and honest regarding your weaknesses and strengths. Being honest about your strengths will enable the interviewer to note your strengths as a potential client. However, announcing your intention to work on your weaknesses is just as important.
Prepare questions
Another key aspect of the interview is showing genuine enthusiasm in the role and in the business. The best person to approach questions is your interviewer. If you noticed something interesting from the job descriptions or if you have questions that were left unanswered by their FAQ page or the guide questions (which are typically found within the job description or their general hiring page about section) You can raise them at the conclusion of the interview, after your interviewer is encouraging you to ask questions. A few questions that you can ask your employer:
"How do I become an ideal candidate for the jobif given the chance to work alongside you and your colleagues?"
"Does the company have any major projects underway in the present"
"What are the opportunities for further development and training?"
Know what your salary expectations are.
Other benefits and packages for salary are often advertised with the position (or as part of a range for those applying through SEEK). However, interviewers could inquire about the amount you anticipate earning. One important tip is to provide a range in which you would like your salary to be, rather than providing an exact, fixed amount. Try to keep your limit to a narrow range instead of providing any wide range. For instance, if expect to make $75,000 a year, a sensible range would be anywhere in the $73,000 to $80,000 range, or anything in the range of $10,000. Be aware of any other perks and benefits too and think about these when you think about your salary goals.
These steps to prepare in your bag is vital to be prepared with the capability to handle the toughest questions. Be confident, self-assured and bold.
To assist with recruitment-related documents and credentials and for interviews, please reach out to Perth Resume. Our knowledgeable and professional consultants are able to help you through your preparatory stages. Contact us now for an free quotation or phone us directly for a chat with one of our experts on 1300 648 974.
