Prepping Effectively for Interviews
One of the most intimidating aspects of the job search is the dreaded interview round. The fear of an interview is a natural result of wanting to seek the approval and support of others particularly from prospective employers. Although talking about oneself may be natural for some but others feel nervous about being asked questions regarding their careers or their previous successes. Perhaps because of modesty, or the fear of being asked personal questions, the interview has become one of the biggest and most nerve-wracking parts in the process of hiring.
It doesn’t have to be the case.
Interviews are the best method for applicants to prove their capabilities are, their achievements, and potential. You’ve already been through the first step and your resume has made the cut through ATS scanners and being considered for an interview. This chance to present and elaborate further on the profile of your employer, background and the most important skills and abilities is the proverbial way to get noticed If you can convince the interviewer you’re the right candidate this increases your chances of passing through the next stage of the selection process.
You can, fortunately, prepare for interviews even if you’re having concerns about presenting your personal achievements. The practice is essential, and fortunately, interview questions can be rehearsed ahead of time. The key to a flawless interview is preparation. Here are some suggestions you can follow to boost your chances of aceing that interview and impressing your future employers:
Be comfortable with difficult questions
Interviewers pose challenging questions mostly because they are trying to gather information as well as because they want to see how you can get rid of potentially contentious topics and concerns. Consider, for instance, the question "Why do you want to leave your current position?"
The answer to the question may be because of problems with management, or concerns with work-life balance, etc. Whatever the reason but the way that you express your answer will demonstrate your capacity to be a fair and objective observer. Give a clear and honest explanation of your reasoning using as much objectivity can be. This means eliminating all emotional responses, like answers based on feelings or emotions and do not have any basis in evidence.
Other important questions to ask are "What made you apply for this job?", "Why should be hiring you?", or trick questions such as "Why do be able to not employ you?" The key is to stay calm and plan your thoughts well.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Start with your statement and follow up with a short note of the reason or reasons the reasons you responded in a certain way. Then, add examples or further elaborate. After you have explained thoroughly the topic, return to the point you made earlier.
If you’re required to explain your participation in a particular project or task then you can apply to describe your involvement in a project or task, you can use the STAR Method, which is commonly used to respond the selection requirements. When you use STAR you will need to write an situation,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken then the results.
The body language
Acting naturally in a stressful situation may be a tall order, but you can always make sure you are practicing professional communication. Place yourself in front of a mirror or ask a friend you trust to ask questions of you and take note of your actions. Are you moving or fidgeting around with a nervousness? Do you appear uneasy, aggressive or reserved in your body expression? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions match the point you are trying to convey? Do you communicate sincerity, authenticity and genuine interest?
Consider your strengths and weak points.
Before you go to the interview, make sure you review the job description over again. Assuming you read the job description and then used the roles and responsibilities described in the description to make changes to your resume and other selection documents It is essential to review the job description in order to accurately present yourself to the interviewer. Be candid and open on your strength and weakness. Being truthful about your strengths will allow the interviewer to note your selling points as a prospective client. But, indicating your intention to work on your weaknesses will be just as relevant.
Prepare questions
Another important aspect of the interview is showing genuine interest about the job and the business. The best person to ask for questions during the interview is the one you interview. If you’ve seen something that’s interesting in the job description, or you have questions that have not been answered by their FAQ page or guide questions (which are usually found in the job packet or their general hiring page about section) Make sure to bring them up at the conclusion of the interview when the interviewer encourages you to ask questions. The most interesting questions you could ask your employer:
"How can I be the best person for the job, if I am given the opportunity to be part of the team?"
"Does the company have any major projects in the pipeline in the present"
"What are the potential opportunities to further develop and learn?"
Know what your salary expectations are.
Benefits and salary packages are typically advertised along with the position (or as part of a range in the case of SEEK). However, interviewers could want to know what salary you anticipate earning. An important point to remember is to offer a range within which you’d like your pay to be, rather than providing an exact or fixed number. Make sure to keep your range tight instead of giving an expansive margin. For instance, if think you will earn $75,000 in a year, an appropriate range would be in the $73,000 to $80,000 or anywhere within the $10,000 range. Consider additional perks and benefits in addition to these when you think about your salary goals.
These steps to prepare in your pocket is crucial to be prepared with the readiness to face the toughest questions. Be confident, be self-assured and be courageous.
If you need assistance with documents related to recruitment and credentials and for interview preparation, reach out to Perth Resume. Our highly skilled and knowledgeable consultants can help you with your interview preparation steps. Contact us today to receive your free quote or phone us directly to speak with one our consultants on 1300 202 475.
