Strategies for Interview Success
One of the most difficult aspects of job searching is the daunting interview process. The fear of an interview is a natural consequence of seeking approval and validation from others in particular from potential employers. While speaking about themselves may be a natural thing for some, others are apprehensive about being asked questions regarding their career or past successes. Perhaps due to modesty or the discomfort arising from being asked personal questions, the interview has become an extremely stressful parts in the process of hiring.
This does not have to be the situation.
Interviews are a crucial means for the candidate to show that their competencies as well as their accomplishments and capabilities. You have already passed the first step with your resume passing an appearance on ATS scanners and your name being selected for an interview. This is the chance to showcase and elaborate on your profile, work history as well as the key skills and experience is the equivalent of getting a entrance into the interview and if you can convince the interviewer you’re qualified this increases your chances to be selected for to the next step in the final selection process.
There is no need to be worried about preparing for interviews even if you’re having apprehensions about talking about your achievements. It is important to practice to a successful interview, and luckily, the questions can be rehearsed before the date. The key to flawless interviews is preparation. Here are some guidelines you can apply to boost your chances of getting through that interview and impressing your future employers:
Make yourself comfortable when faced with tricky questions.
Interviewers pose challenging questions partly because they want to get information from you, but also, since they want to help you navigate your way out of potential contentious issues and worries. Consider for instance the question "Why are you resigning from your current job?"
The answer to the question could be due to management issues, or concerns with work-life balance, etc. No matter the answer, however, the manner in which you phrase your answer will show your capacity to be a fair and objective observer. Answer honestly and explain your response using as much objectivity possible. This includes removing all emotional responses, like answers based on feelings or sentiments and are not substantiated by evidence.
Other important questions to ask are "What motivated you to apply for this role?", "Why should be hiring us?", or trick questions such as "Why should we not employ you?" 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 then follow it up with a short note of the reason or reasons why you chose to respond in a specific manner. Then, add details or go into more detail. After you’ve clarified your points thoroughly the topic, return to the previous section.
Similarly, if you are requested to provide a description of your participation in a task or project and you are required to describe your involvement, you could use the STAR Method, which is also usually used in responding the selection requirements. In using STAR it is necessary to describe an situation,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken as well as the result.
It’s all in body language
The ability to act naturally in stressful environment can be a tall order but it is possible to practice professional communication. Sit in front of a mirror or ask a friend you trust to ask questions and take note of your actions. Are you fidgeting or shifting about with anxiety? Do you seem rigid, aloof, defensive or shut off in your body and speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions in line with your message you’re trying to convey? Do you display authenticity, openness and genuine interest?
Think about your strengths and your weaknesses.
Before you go to the interview, you should go over the job description over again. In the event that you’ve read the description and then used the roles and responsibilities outlined in the description to make changes to your resume as well as other selection documents It is essential to review the job description in order to accurately present yourself to the interviewer. Be open and honest on your strength and weakness. Being open regarding your strengths will allow interviewers to recognize your unique selling points as a potential customer. However, announcing your intention to work on your weaknesses will also be notable.
Prepare questions
Another important aspect of the interview is to show genuine interest in the job and within the business. The best person to approach for questions during the interview is the one you interview. If you have noticed something intriguing on the resume, or if you have questions not answered by their FAQ page or the guide questions (which typically are found in the job packet or their general hiring page About section) You can raise them during the interview when the interviewer encourages you to ask questions. Some thought-provoking questions you may ask your employer are:
"How do I become the best person for the job, should I be offered the chance to be part of the team?"
"Does the company have any major projects underway at the moment"
"What are the possibilities for advancement and further training?"
Be aware of your salary expectations
The salary package and other benefits are usually advertised alongside the job (or in a variety, in the case of SEEK). However, interviewers may still inquire about the amount you’re expecting to earn. The most important thing to do is provide a range in which you would like your salary to fall rather than giving an exact number or a set amount. Keep your range tight instead of giving the possibility of a large margin. For example, if you anticipate earning $75,000 per year, an appropriate range is anywhere between the $73,000 to $80,000 or anything in the range of $10,000. Be mindful of other perks and benefits in addition to these when you think about your salary expectations.
The preparation steps you have in your back pocket is essential to equip yourself with the ability to tackle the most difficult questions. Be confident, feel confident and bold.
For help with the recruitment process, documents and certificates, as well as for interview preparation, contact Perth Resume. Our friendly and highly trained consultants are able to guide you through the interview preparation stages. Contact us today to receive your no-cost quote or to call us directly to speak with one our consultants on 1300 648 974.
