Interview Preparation Tactics
One of the most daunting aspects of the job search is the daunting interview process. Fear of being interviewed is a natural result of wanting acceptance and approval from others in particular from potential employers. Although expressing their opinions about themselves might come naturally to some people, others are apprehensive about being asked questions about their careers or their previous successes. Perhaps due to modesty or the anxiety that comes from being asked questions about their personal life Interviews have become one of the biggest and most intimidating aspects of the hiring process.
This does not have to be the case.
Interviews are a great means for the candidate to show that their competencies, achievements, and potentials. You have already passed the first step and your resume has made the cut through ATS scanners, and your name being selected for an interview. The chance to show and elaborate on one’s profile, employment history and the most important skills and knowledge is the aforementioned foot in the door: if you convince the interviewer you’re qualified you increase your odds of passing through to the next step in the selection process.
You can, fortunately, prepare for interview questions if you’re struggling with concerns about presenting your achievements. It is important to practice to a successful interview, and luckily, the questions can be rehearsed in advance. The secret to successful interviews is preparation. Here are some suggestions you can use to increase your chances of nailing the interview and impressing your prospective employers:
Make yourself comfortable when faced with tricky questions.
Interviewers ask challenging questions, mostly because they are trying to gain information however, also because they want to see how you can get rid of potentially contentious issues and concerns. Consider for instance the question "Why have you decided to quit your current role?"
The answer to the question may be because of problems with management, or concerns with work-life balance, etc. Whatever the reason, however, the manner that you express your answer will demonstrate your ability to be a fair and objective observer. Be honest and articulate your response with the greatest objectivity possible. This means eliminating emotional responses like responses based on feelings or emotions and do not have any basis in actual facts.
Other questions to be prepared for include "What motivated you to apply for this role?", "Why should we hire us?", or trick questions like "Why do we not take you on?" The key is to not lose composure 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 follow up with a short reason or summary as to why you chose to respond in a specific way. Next, provide instances or elaborate. After you’ve clarified your points thoroughly the topic, return to your previous point.
If you’re asked to describe your involvement in a task or project it is possible to use this method. STAR Method, which is typically used to respond on selection criteria. When using STAR, you must state a scenario,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken, and lastly, the Result.
All it is in the body language
Acting naturally in a stressful environment can be a challenge, but you can always practice professional communication. You can sit in front of a mirror or ask a trusted person to inquire about your concerns and observe your body language. Are you shifting or fidgeting around with a nervousness? Do you seem uneasy, aggressive or reserved in your body expression? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions match what you want to make? Do you show sincerity, authenticity, and genuine interest?
Take a look at your strengths and weak points.
Prior to the interview, make sure you review the job description again. Assuming you read the job description and then used the roles and responsibilities described within to customize and modify your resume and other documents for selection, it is important to review the job description to honestly present yourself to the interviewer. Be honest and upfront about your strengths and weaknesses. Being honest about your strengths can allow interviewers to recognize your unique selling points as a potential client. However, showing your determination to address 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 questions is your interviewer. If you have noticed something intriguing in the job description or if you’ve got any questions not answered through their FAQ or their guide questions (which can be found in the job packet or in their general hiring page about section) Make sure to bring them up at the end of the interview when the interviewer invites you to ask questions. Some of the questions you could ask your employer are:
"How do I become an ideal candidate for the job, should I be given the chance to join your team?"
"Does the company have any major projects underway right now"
"What are the potential opportunities for advancement and further training?"
Be aware of your salary expectations
Salary packages and other benefits are often advertised with the position (or on a list, when applying via SEEK). However, interviewers may still inquire about the amount you expect to earn. One important tip is to offer a range within which you’d like your pay to fall instead of offering an exact, fixed amount. Keep your range as narrow as possible instead of offering a a wide margin. For instance, if you anticipate earning $75,000 per year, an appropriate range would be in the $73,000 to $80,000 range, or anywhere within the $10,000 range. Be mindful of other benefits and perks as well and consider these when you think about your salary goals.
The preparation steps you have in your bag is vital for ensuring you are in readiness to face the toughest questions. Be confident, confident, and confident, and be bold.
If you need assistance with documents related to recruitment and credentials and for interview preparation, you may reach out to Perth Resume. Our knowledgeable and professional consultants will be able to help you through your preparatory phases. Contact us today to receive an free quotation or to call us directly to speak with one of our consultants at 1300 202 475.
