Mastering Interview Readiness
A major and difficult aspects of the job search is the daunting interview process. The fear of an interview is a natural result of wanting to seek the approval and support of others particularly from prospective employers. Although expressing their opinions about themselves might seem natural to certain people However, some are uncomfortable being asked questions about their career or past successes. Perhaps because of modesty, or the fear of being asked to answer personal questions Interviews have become among the more intimidating aspects in the process of hiring.
This does not have to be the situation.
Interviews are a crucial opportunity for applicants to prove their capabilities have been demonstrated, as well as their potential. You have already made it through the first step by submitting your resume to the cut through ATS scanners and you being shortlisted for an interview. The chance to show and elaborate further on your profile, work history and the most important skills and expertise is the proverbial step to the front and if you can convince the interviewer you have what it takes you increase your odds of passing the next stage of the selection process.
It is a good idea to prepare for interviews if you have concerns about presenting your personal achievements. It is important to practice and luckily, interview questions can be practiced ahead of time. The secret to successful interviews is preparation, and here are some tips that you can apply to boost your chances of getting through that interview and impressing your prospective employers:
Make yourself comfortable when faced with tricky questions.
Interviewers pose challenging questions mostly because they are trying to gather information, but also, because they want to help how you can get rid of potentially contentious questions and worries. Take for example the question "Why have you decided to quit your current position?"
The answer may be because of management concerns, or issues about work-life balance. No matter the answer however, the manner that you formulate your answer will show your ability to be a fair and objective observer. Give a clear and honest explanation of your reasoning using as much objectivity is possible. This means eliminating emotional responses like responses based on feelings or emotions and are not supported by evidence.
Other questions to prepare for include "What did you do to get this job?", "Why should us choose to hire the person we chose to hire?", or trick questions like "Why do we 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 up with a short explanation or a brief summary of the reasons you responded in a certain manner. After that, you can add specific examples or provide more details. Once you’ve thoroughly explained then return to your original point.
If you’re asked to write about your involvement in a particular project or task it is possible to employ to describe your involvement in a project or task, you can use the STAR Method, which is typically used to respond to selection criteria. If you are using STAR it is necessary to describe the situation,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken, and lastly, the Result.
The body language
Being natural in a difficult situation can be a daunting task but it is possible to make sure you are practicing professional communication. Place yourself in front of a mirror or ask a trusted friend to ask you questions and observe your body language. Are you flitting or shifting around with a nervousness? Are you looking rigid, aloof, defensive or shut off in your body and speech? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions consistent with your message you’re trying to make? Do you display authenticity, openness and genuine enthusiasm?
Think about your strengths and weaknesses.
Before the interview, you should go over the job description over again. Assuming you read the job description and applied the roles and responsibilities outlined therein to modify and customise your resume and other document of selection It is essential to review the job description and how you will describe yourself to the interviewer. Be upfront and honest regarding your weaknesses and strengths. Being realistic about your strengths will allow interviewers to recognize your strengths as a potential client. However, showing your determination to address your weak points will be equally relevant.
Prepare questions
Another aspect to consider in the interview is to show genuine interest about the job and the company. The most appropriate person to ask to ask questions of the person interviewing you is. If you noticed something interesting within the description of your job, or you have questions that were left unanswered through their FAQ or their guide questions (which are typically found within the job packet or the general page for hiring About section) Make sure to bring them up during the interview, after your interviewer asks you to pose questions. Some thought-provoking questions you may ask your employer are:
"How can I be the most suitable person for the job, should I be offered the chance to join you and your colleagues?"
"Does the company has any major projects going on in the present"
"What are the chances to advance and further education?"
Know what your salary expectations are.
Other benefits and packages for salary are often advertised with the job (or on a list in the case of SEEK). However, interviewers could be interested in knowing what you anticipate earning. An important point to remember is to offer a range within which you would like your salary to fall rather than giving an exact, fixed amount. Make sure to keep your range as narrow as possible instead of offering a the possibility of a large margin. If, for instance, you expect to make $75,000 a year, a good range would be anywhere in the $73,000-$80,000 range or anyplace within the $10,000 range. Also, be aware of other benefits and perks in addition to these when you think about your salary goals.
The preparation steps you have in your back pocket is essential to equip yourself with the ability to tackle the most difficult questions. Be confident, feel confident and courageous.
For help with the recruitment process, documents or credentials as well as the preparation for your interview, contact Perth Resume. Our knowledgeable and professional consultants can guide you through the interview preparation steps. Contact us today for a free quotation or to call us directly to speak to one of our consultants on 1300 202 475.
