Steps to Interview Readiness
Perhaps the most frightening aspects of job searching is the daunting interview process. Fear of being interviewed is a natural consequence of seeking recognition and acceptance from other people in particular from potential employers. Although expressing their opinions about themselves might come naturally to some people but others feel nervous about being asked questions regarding their professional or previous achievements. Perhaps it is because of modesty or the fear of being asked questions that are personal to them interviews have turned out to be an extremely intimidating parts in the process of hiring.
This doesn’t have to be the situation.
Interviews are the best opportunity for applicants to demonstrate their skills as well as their accomplishments and capabilities. You’ve already been through the first step, with your resume making it through ATS scanners and your name being selected for an interview. The chance to show and elaborate further on one’s profile, employment history and the most important skills and knowledge is the aforementioned way to get noticed and if you can convince the interviewer you’re the right candidate, it boosts your chances of getting through the next phase of the selection process.
Luckily, you can prepare for interviews if you have doubts about speaking about your personal achievements. It is important to practice to a successful interview, and luckily, the questions can be rehearsed prior to the time. The secret to successful interviews is preparation. Here are some suggestions you can apply to boost your chances at nailing that interview and impressing your future employers.
Be comfortable with difficult questions
Interviewers are able to ask tough questions mostly because they are trying to gain information as well as since they want to help you navigate your way out of potential contentious issues and worries. Take for example the question "Why have you decided to quit your current job?"
The answer may be because of managerial issues, or worries about work-life balance. No matter the answer but the way that you formulate your response will signal your ability to be a fair and objective observer. Be honest and articulate your responses with as much objectivity as possible. This means eliminating any emotional responses such as answers based on sentiments or feelings, and are not substantiated by factual evidence.
Other questions to prepare for include "What made you apply for this job?", "Why should us choose to hire your services?", or trick questions such as "Why should be able to not hire you?" The key is to not lose composure and organise your thoughts carefully.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Introduce your idea and follow with a brief argument or explanation of the reason you reacted in a particular manner. Add details or go into more detail. Once you’ve explained everything thoroughly you can go back to the point you made earlier.
In the same way, if you’re asked to describe your involvement in a project or task it is possible to apply an approach called the STAR Method, which is also usually used in responding to criteria for selection. When you use STAR the first thing you need to do is write the scenario,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken, and lastly, the result.
It’s all in the body language
The ability to act naturally in stressful situation could be a challenge however, you can practice professional communication. Sit in front of a mirror or have a trusted companion to ask questions of you and observe your body language. Are you moving or fidgeting about with anxiety? Do you look intimidating, stiff, defensive or aloof in your body expression? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions reflect your message you’re trying to convey? Do you communicate genuineness, honesty and genuine interest?
Think about your strengths and weak points.
Before you go to the interview, be sure to review the job description over again. Assuming that you’ve read the description and used the roles and responsibilities outlined in the description to make changes to your resume and other document of selection, it is important to review the job description and how you will package yourself for the interviewer. Be candid and open about your strengths and weaknesses. Being honest about your strengths can allow the interviewer to notice your unique selling points as a prospective client. However, announcing your intention to improve your weaknesses will be just as important.
Prepare questions
Another crucial aspect of an 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 noticed something interesting within the description of your job, or if you’ve got any questions not answered through their FAQ or the guide questions (which are typically found within the job packet or their general hiring page about section) Make sure to bring them up after the interview, when your interviewer is encouraging you to ask questions. Some of the questions you could ask your employer:
"How do I become the most qualified person for this job, if I am given the chance to join the team?"
"Does the company has any major projects going on right now"
"What are the possibilities to advance and further education?"
Know what your salary expectations are.
Benefits and salary packages are often advertised with the position (or as part of a range, for those applying through SEEK). However, interviewers may still be interested in knowing what you anticipate earning. A good tip is to offer a range within which you’d like your salary to fall rather than giving an exact number or a set amount. Try to keep your range as narrow as possible instead of offering a the possibility of a large margin. For example, if you think you will earn $75,000 in a year, a reasonable range is anywhere between the $73,000 to $80,000 range, or anywhere within the $10,000 range. Be mindful of additional perks and benefits as well and consider these when you consider your salary expectations.
The preparation steps you have in your pocket is crucial to ensure you have the readiness to face the toughest questions. Be confident, self-assured, and be bold.
For help with the recruitment process, documents and credentials and for interview preparation, you may contact Perth Resume. Our professional and friendly consultants are able to guide you through the interview preparation stages. Contact us today for your free quote or contact us directly to speak with one our consultants at 1300 648 974.
