Prepping Effectively for Interviews
Perhaps the most difficult aspects of the job search is the dreaded interview round. Fear of being interviewed is a natural result of wanting the approval and support of others and especially your potential employers. Although talking about oneself may seem natural to certain people However, some are uncomfortable being asked about their career or past accomplishments. Perhaps because of modesty, or the anxiety that comes from being asked personal questions interviews have turned out to be one of the biggest and most intimidating aspects that are required to hire.
This doesn’t need to be the case.
Interviews are an important opportunity for applicants to showcase their abilities, achievements, and potentials. It’s been a while since you’ve been through the first step and your resume has made it through ATS scanners, and your name getting a callback. This is the chance to showcase and further elaborate on your profile, work history as well as the key skills and abilities is the proverbial step to the front and if you can convince the interviewer you’re a good fit, it boosts your chances of getting through the next phase of the selection process.
Luckily, you can prepare for interviews in case you’re experiencing concerns about presenting your accomplishments. Practice is key and luckily, interview questions can be rehearsed ahead of time. The key to a flawless interview is preparation. Here are some tips that you can follow to boost your chances at nailing that interview and impressing your potential employers.
Make yourself comfortable when faced with tricky questions
Interviewers are able to ask tough questions partly because they want to gather information as well as because they want to see how you can get rid of potentially contentious issues and worries. For instance, consider the question "Why are you leaving your current role?"
The answer to this question may be because of managerial issues, or worries regarding work-life balance, for instance. No matter the answer but the way that you formulate your response will signal your ability to be a fair and objective observer. Give a clear and honest explanation of your reasoning with the greatest objectivity is possible. This means removing all emotional responses, like answers based on sentiments or feelings, that are not supported by factual evidence.
Other questions to be prepared for include "What did you do to get this job?", "Why should be hiring your services?", or trick questions such as "Why do you not employ 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. Lead with your point and follow with a brief explanation or a brief summary of the reason you reacted in a particular way. Then, add instances or elaborate. Once you’ve explained everything thoroughly, go back to the previous section.
In the same way, if you’re asked to describe your involvement in a particular project or task and you are required to describe your involvement, you could utilize this method. STAR Method, which is typically used to respond on selection criteria. When you use STAR, you must state a scenario,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken, and lastly, the Result.
It’s all in the body language
The ability to act naturally in stressful situation may be difficult However, you can try to practice professional communication. Put yourself in front of the mirror or ask a friend you trust to ask questions and observe your behavior. Are you fidgeting or shifting around with a nervousness? Do you look uneasy, aggressive or reserved in your body expression? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions match the message you’re trying to make? Do you convey sincerity, authenticity and genuine concern?
Be aware of your strengths and weaknesses
Before the interview, you should read the job description over again. If you have read the job description and utilized the roles and responsibilities described therein to modify and customise your resume as well as other selection documents, it is important to review the job description to clearly package yourself for the interviewer. Be open and honest concerning your abilities and shortcomings. Being honest about your strengths will enable the interviewer to notice your unique selling points as a potential customer. However, announcing your intention to work on your weak points will be equally relevant.
Prepare questions
Another important aspect of the interview is showing genuine interest in the job and within the business. The best person to approach to ask questions of the person interviewing you is. If you’ve noticed something you like in the job description, or if you have concerns that weren’t answered through their FAQ or the guide questions (which typically are found in the job packet or in their general hiring page About section) Make sure to bring them up at the conclusion of the interview when the interviewer asks you to pose questions. Some of the questions you could ask your employer:
"How can I be an ideal candidate for the task, if given the chance to work alongside members of your staff?"
"Does the company have any major projects in the pipeline currently"
"What are the opportunities for advancement and further training?"
Be aware of your salary expectations
The salary package and other benefits are usually advertised alongside the job (or within a set of options, in the case of SEEK). But, interviewers might be interested in knowing what you are expecting. One important tip is to offer a range within which you’d like your earnings to be based instead of giving an exact number or a set amount. Try to keep your range tight instead of giving an expansive margin. For example, if you are expecting to earn $75,000 per year, a good choice would be anything from the $73,000 to $80,000 or anything in the range of $10,000. Consider other perks and benefits too and think about these when you think about your salary goals.
Having these preparatory steps in your pocket is crucial to equip yourself with the capability to handle the toughest questions. Be confident, feel confident and be courageous.
To assist with recruitment-related documents and certificates, as well as for interview preparation, you may reach out to Perth Resume. Our professional and friendly consultants are able to help you with your interview preparation stages. Contact us now for an complimentary quote or call us direct to speak with one our consultants on 1300 202 475.
