Steps to Interview Readiness
One of the most frightening aspect of job hunts 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. While expressing themselves in a positive manner may come naturally to some people However, some are uncomfortable 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 has become an extremely nerve-wracking parts of the hiring process.
It doesn’t have to be the scenario.
Interviews are a crucial means for the candidate to show that their competencies are, their achievements, and potential. It’s been a while since you’ve completed the initial step, with your resume making the cut through ATS scanners and you being selected for an interview. The chance to show and elaborate upon your profile, work history, and key skills and abilities is the proverbial way to get noticed when you convince the interviewer that you’re a good fit that increases your chances of getting through the next step of the final selection process.
You can, fortunately, prepare for interviews in case you’re experiencing fears about speaking about your own achievements. Practice is key to a successful interview, and luckily, the questions can be rehearsed prior to the time. The secret to successful interviews is preparation, and here are some helpful tips you can apply to boost your chances of aceing that interview and impressing your potential employers.
Learn to be comfortable around difficult questions
Interviewers ask challenging questions, partly because they want to gain information however, also in order to help you get out of potentially contentious issues and concerns. Consider for instance the question "Why are you resigning from your current job?"
The answer could be due to managerial issues, or worries with work-life balance, etc. Whatever the reason however, the manner in which you phrase your response will signal your capacity to be an objective and fair observer. Be honest and articulate your response using as much objectivity can be. This includes removing any emotional responses , such as answers that are based purely on emotions or feelings and are not supported by facts.
Other questions to consider include "What inspired you to apply for this role?", "Why should we hire the person we chose to hire?", or trick questions like "Why should us not choose you?" The key is to stay calm and arrange your thoughts with care.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Start with your statement and then follow it up with a short note of the reason or reasons why you chose to respond in a specific manner. Then, add details or go into more detail. Once you’ve thoroughly explained the topic, return to the point you made earlier.
In the same way, if you’re required to explain your participation on a project or task then you can use the STAR Method, which is often used when responding to criteria for selection. When you use STAR you will need to write a situation,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken as well as the Result.
It’s all in the body language
Behaving naturally in a difficult situation can be a daunting task but it is possible to try to practice professional communication. You can sit in front of a mirror or ask a friend you trust to inquire about your concerns and take note of your actions. Are you flitting or shifting around in a tense manner? Do you look uneasy, aggressive or aloof in your body language? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions consistent with the point you are trying to make? Do you show openness, sincerity and genuine interest?
Consider your strengths and your weaknesses.
Before you go to the interview, make sure you review the job description over again. Assuming that you’ve read the description and utilized the roles and responsibilities outlined in it to alter and personalize your resume and other selection documents It is essential to review the job description to honestly describe yourself to the interviewer. Be honest and upfront regarding your weaknesses and strengths. Being realistic about your strengths will allow the interviewer to note your selling points as a potential client. But, indicating your intention to address your weaknesses will be just as important.
Prepare questions
Another key aspect of the interview is showing genuine enthusiasm about the job and the business. The most appropriate person to ask questions is your interviewer. If you’ve noticed something you like in the job description or if you have questions not answered by their FAQ page or guide questions (which can be found in the job packet or in their general hiring page about section) You can raise them at the end of the interview, when your interviewer encourages you to ask questions. Some thought-provoking questions you may ask your employer:
"How can I be the most qualified person for this jobif offered the chance to join the team?"
"Does the company has any major projects going on currently"
"What are the opportunities to advance and further education?"
Know what your salary expectations are.
Benefits and salary packages are generally advertised with the job (or within a set of options for those applying through SEEK). But, interviewers might want to know what salary you are expecting. A good tip is to offer a range within which you would like your salary to be based instead of giving an exact, fixed amount. 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, a sensible range would be anywhere in the $73,000 to $80,000 range, or anything in the range of $10,000. Be mindful of additional perks and benefits also and take these into consideration when you are evaluating your salary goals.
Having these preparatory steps in your purse is important to equip yourself with the capability to handle the toughest questions. Be confident, feel confident and courageous.
For assistance in recruitment-related documents and certificates, as well as for interview preparation, you may get in touch with Perth Resume. Our highly skilled and knowledgeable consultants will be able to guide you through the interview preparation stages. Contact us today to receive the complimentary quote or contact us directly for a chat with one of our consultants at 1300 202 475.
