A Guide to Interview Preparation
Perhaps the most frightening aspects of job searching is the fear of an interview. It is a normal result of wanting to seek the approval and support of others and especially your potential employers. Although talking about oneself may come naturally to some people but others feel nervous about being asked questions regarding their work or prior accomplishments. Perhaps because of modesty, or the anxiety that comes from being asked personal questions The interview process has evolved into an extremely stressful parts during the selection process.
This doesn’t need to be the situation.
Interviews are a crucial means for the candidate to demonstrate their skills, achievements, and potentials. It’s been a while since you’ve made it through the first step with your resume passing an appearance on ATS scanners and your name being shortlisted for an interview. This chance to present and further elaborate on your profile, work history, and key skills and abilities is the proverbial way to get noticed when you convince the interviewer that you’re the right candidate this increases your chances of getting through the next phase of the selection process.
Luckily, you can prepare for interviews even if you’re having concerns about presenting your own achievements. Training is the key to success to a successful interview, and luckily, the questions can be practiced ahead of time. The key to flawless interviews is preparation, and here are some helpful tips you can implement to improve your chances of getting through that interview and impressing future employers:
Be comfortable with difficult questions.
Interviewers are able to ask tough questions partially because they wish to gain information as well as because they want to see you get out of potentially contentious issues and issues. Consider for instance the question "Why are you resigning from your current position?"
The answer to the question 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 your answer will demonstrate your ability to be an objective and fair observer. Be honest and articulate your answer with the greatest objectivity is possible. This means that you should eliminate all emotional responses, like responses that are based solely on emotions or feelings that are not supported by facts.
Other questions to consider include "What did you do to get this job?", "Why should we hire your services?", or trick questions like "Why should be able to not hire 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. Lead with your point and then provide a concise explanation or a brief summary of the reason you reacted in a particular way. After that, you can add instances or elaborate. After you’ve clarified your points thoroughly you can go back to the previous section.
Also, if asked to write about your involvement in a project or task then you can utilize the STAR Method, which is commonly used to respond to selection criteria. In using STAR the first thing you need to do is write the situation,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken as well as the results.
It’s all in body language
Acting naturally in a difficult situation can be a tall order However, you can learn to communicate professionally. Sit in front of a mirror or ask a trusted person to ask you questions and observe your body language. Are you moving or fidgeting around in a tense manner? Do you look rigid, aloof, defensive or shut off in your body or speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions consistent with the point you are trying to convey? Do you show sincerity, authenticity and genuine interest?
Take a look at your strengths and weak points.
Before the interview, you should read the job description once more. Assuming you read the job description and then used the roles and responsibilities listed in it to alter and personalize your resume and other selection documents It is essential to look at the job description in order to accurately present yourself to the interviewer. Be honest and upfront about your strengths and weaknesses. Being open about your strengths will allow the interviewer to note your unique selling points as a prospect. However, showing your determination to improve your weak points will be equally relevant.
Prepare questions
Another aspect to consider in the interview is showing genuine interest in the job and within the business. The best person to ask to ask questions of the person interviewing you is. If you’ve noticed something you like in the job description or you have questions that have not been answered on their FAQ page or their guide questions (which can be found in the job packet or their general hiring page About section), raise these at the end of the interview, when your interviewer is encouraging you to ask questions. Some of the questions you could ask your employer are:
"How do I become the best person for the job, if I am given the opportunity to be part of your team?"
"Does the company has any major projects going on currently"
"What are the chances to advance and further education?"
Know your salary expectations
The salary package and other benefits are generally advertised with the job (or on a list, for those applying through SEEK). But, interviewers might inquire about the amount you’re expecting to earn. One important tip is to provide a range in which you’d like your pay to fall rather than giving an exact or set number. Make sure to keep your range tight instead of giving the possibility of a large margin. For example, if you think you will earn $75,000 in a year, a good choice would be anything from the $73,000 to $80,000 area or anything in the range of $10,000. Be aware of any additional perks and benefits too and think about these when you are evaluating your salary goals.
Inputting these steps into your bag is vital to equip yourself with the ability to tackle the most difficult questions. Be confident, self-assured, and be bold.
To assist with recruitment-related documents or credentials as well as interviews, please contact Perth Resume. Our professional and friendly consultants will be able to assist you in your preparation stages. Contact us now for your free quote or call us direct to speak to one of our experts on 1300 615 870.
