Strategies for Interview Success
Perhaps the most difficult aspect of job hunts is the dreaded interview round. It is a normal result of wanting approval and validation from others and especially your potential employers. Although expressing their opinions about themselves might be a natural thing for some but others feel nervous about being asked questions about their career or past successes. Perhaps it is because of modesty or the discomfort that comes with being asked questions that are personal to them The interview process has evolved into among the more intimidating parts during the selection process.
This doesn’t have to be the case.
Interviews are a great means for the candidate to show that their competencies are, their achievements, and potential. You’ve passed the first step, with your resume making an appearance on ATS scanners and you getting a callback. The chance to show and elaborate upon one’s profile, employment history as well as the key skills and experience is the equivalent of getting a entrance into the interview If you can convince the interviewer that you’re the right candidate that increases your chances of getting through to the next step in the selection process.
It is a good idea to prepare for interviews if you have apprehensions about talking about your achievements. It is important to practice and luckily, interview questions can be practiced in advance. The secret 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 prospective employers:
Get comfortable around tricky questions
Interviewers ask challenging questions, partly because they want to gain information however, also in order to help you come out of potential contentious issues and concerns. Consider, for instance, the question "Why have you decided to quit your current job?"
The reason for this could be due to management concerns, or issues regarding work-life balance, for instance. Whatever the reason but the way that you express your answer will show your capacity to be an objective and fair observer. Answer honestly and explain your reasoning in the most objective way can be. This includes removing any emotional responses such as answers that are based purely on feelings or sentiments and do not have any basis in actual facts.
Other important questions to ask include "What made you apply for this position?", "Why should we choose your services?", or trick questions such as "Why do be able to not choose 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. Begin with your topic and then follow it up with a short reason or summary as to why you chose to respond in a specific way. Add specific examples or provide more details. After you have explained thoroughly then return to your previous point.
If you’re asked to describe your involvement in a project or task, you may employ the STAR Method, which is typically used to respond to criteria for selection. When using STAR the first thing you need to do is write the context,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken then the results.
It’s all in body language
Behaving naturally in a difficult situation can be a daunting task, but you can always try to practice professional communication. You can sit in front of a mirror or ask a trusted person to ask you questions and note your mannerisms. Are you flitting or shifting about with anxiety? Do you look rigid, aloof, defensive or shut off in your body and speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions reflect what you want to convey? Do you show authenticity, openness and genuine interest?
Take a look at your strengths and weak points.
Prior to your interview, be sure to review the description of the position. Assuming that you’ve read the description and applied the roles and duties listed therein to modify and customise your resume as well as other selection documents It is imperative to consider the job description to honestly present yourself to the interviewer. Be candid and open regarding your weaknesses and strengths. Being open about your strengths will enable the interviewer to see your selling points as a prospective client. However, announcing your intention to work on your weaknesses will also be notable.
Prepare questions
Another crucial aspect of an interview is to show genuine interest in the job and within the company. The best person to inquire questions is your interviewer. If you’ve seen something that’s interesting within the description of your job, or you have questions not answered through their FAQ or the guide questions (which are usually found in the job description or the general page for hiring About section), raise these after the interview, when your interviewer asks you to pose questions. A few questions that you can ask your employer:
"How can I be an ideal candidate for the job, should I be given the opportunity to join members of your staff?"
"Does the company has any major projects going on right now"
"What are the chances to advance and further education?"
Know what your salary expectations are.
The salary package and other benefits are typically advertised along with the job (or as part of a range when applying via SEEK). However, the interviewer may inquire about the amount you are expecting. One important tip is to include a range that you’d like your salary to fall instead of offering an exact number or a set amount. Keep your limits to a certain extent instead of allowing a a wide margin. If, for instance, you think you will earn $75,000 in a year, a reasonable range would be anywhere in the $73,000 to $80,000 area or anything in the range of $10,000. Also, be aware of other benefits and perks also and take these into consideration when you think about your salary goals.
Inputting these steps into your purse is important to be prepared with the readiness to face the toughest questions. Be confident, feel confident, and be bold.
For help with the recruitment process, documents and certificates, as well as for interview preparation, you may reach out to Perth Resume. Our knowledgeable and professional consultants will be able to help you with your interview preparation phases. Contact us today for your free quotation or phone us directly to speak to one of our consultants at 1300 202 475.
