Mastering Interview Readiness
Perhaps the most daunting aspects of job searching is the interview stage. Fear of being interviewed is a natural consequence of seeking the approval and support of others and especially your potential employers. While expressing themselves in a positive manner may be a natural thing for some However, some are uncomfortable being asked questions about their work or prior achievements. Perhaps it is because of modesty or the fear of being asked to answer personal questions, the interview has become an extremely intimidating aspects of the hiring process.
This does not have to be the scenario.
Interviews are a crucial way for the applicant to demonstrate their skills have been demonstrated, as well as their potential. You have already been through the first step, with your resume making an appearance on ATS scanners, and your name being selected for an interview. This chance to present and elaborate upon one’s profile, employment history as well as key abilities and abilities is the proverbial entrance into the interview: if you convince the interviewer that you’re qualified this increases your chances of passing the next step of the selection process.
You can, fortunately, prepare for interviews even if you’re having fears about speaking about your achievements. Practice is key to a successful interview, and luckily, the questions can be rehearsed ahead of time. The key to flawless interviews is preparation, and here are some tips that you can apply to boost your chances of aceing that interview and impressing your potential employers.
Get comfortable around tricky questions.
Interviewers pose challenging questions partly because they want to gather information, but also, because they want to see you come out of potentially contentious questions and issues. Consider for instance the question "Why are you leaving your current role?"
The answer may be because of problems with management, or concerns regarding work-life balance, for instance. Whatever the reason however, the manner the way you frame the answer will indicate your ability to be an objective and fair observer. Answer honestly and explain your response with the greatest objectivity is possible. This means eliminating any emotional responses , such as responses based on sentiments or feelings, and are not supported by factual evidence.
Other important questions to ask include "What did you do to get this position?", "Why should us choose to hire the person we chose to hire?", or trick questions like "Why should be able to 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. Start with your statement and then provide a concise explanation or a brief summary of why you chose to respond in a specific manner. Then, add specific examples or provide more details. After you’ve clarified your points thoroughly you can go back to the point you made earlier.
Also, if requested to provide a description of your participation in a particular project or task, you may use an approach called the STAR Method, which is commonly used to respond on selection criteria. When using STAR you will need to write the Situation,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken, and lastly, the Result.
It’s all in body language
Behaving naturally in a stressful situation could be a tall order 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 questions of you and observe your body language. Are you moving or fidgeting about nervously? Do you look stiff, standoffish, defensive or reserved in your body and speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions consistent with your message you’re trying to make? Do you communicate sincerity, authenticity, and genuine interest?
Consider your strengths and weaknesses.
Prior to your interview, ensure that you go over the job description over again. Assuming that you’ve read the description and then used the roles and responsibilities outlined within to customize and modify your resume as well as other selection documents It is essential to review the job description to honestly describe yourself to the interviewer. Be open and honest concerning your abilities and shortcomings. Being realistic regarding your strengths will allow the interviewer to note your selling points as a potential client. However, showing your determination to improve your weaknesses will also be important.
Prepare questions
Another aspect to consider in the interview is to show genuine interest in the job and within the company. The best person to ask questions is your interviewer. If you have noticed something intriguing from the job descriptions, or if you’ve got any questions not answered on their FAQ page or the guide questions (which typically are found in the job application or their general hiring page About section) Bring them up after the interview when the interviewer encourages you to ask questions. The most interesting questions you could ask your employer are:
"How can I be the most qualified person for this job, if I am offered the chance to work alongside you and your colleagues?"
"Does the company have any major projects underway at the moment"
"What are the possibilities to further develop and learn?"
Know what your salary expectations are.
Salary packages and other benefits are typically advertised along with the job (or within a set of options in the case of SEEK). However, interviewers may still inquire about the amount you anticipate earning. One important tip is to include a range that you’d like your pay to fall instead of offering an exact, fixed amount. Be sure to keep the range tight instead of giving the possibility of a large margin. If, for instance, you anticipate earning $75,000 per year, a sensible choice would be anything from the $73,000-$80,000 range or anywhere within the $10,000 range. Be mindful of other benefits and perks also and take these into consideration when you think about your salary expectations.
The preparation steps you have in your bag is vital to be prepared with the ability to tackle the most difficult questions. Be confident, be self-assured and bold.
To assist with recruitment-related documents or credentials as well as interviews, please get in touch with Perth Resume. Our highly skilled and knowledgeable consultants are able to help you with your interview preparation stages. Contact us today to receive your complimentary quote or call us direct for a chat with one of our experts on 1300 648 974.
