Optimizing Your Interview Preparation
The most difficult aspects of job hunting is the daunting interview process. Fear of being interviewed is a natural consequence of seeking the approval and support of others in particular from potential employers. While expressing themselves in a positive manner may be a natural thing for some, others are apprehensive about being asked questions about their careers or their previous successes. Perhaps because of modesty, or the discomfort arising from being asked questions that are personal to them Interviews have become one of the biggest and most intimidating parts that are required to hire.
This does not have to be the situation.
Interviews are a crucial method for applicants to prove their capabilities, achievements, and potentials. You’ve made it through the first step by submitting your resume to its way through ATS scanners and you getting a callback. The chance to show and elaborate upon your profile, work history as well as the key skills and experience is the equivalent of getting a foot in the door and if you can convince the interviewer you have what it takes you increase your odds of getting through the next step of the selection process.
Luckily, you can prepare for interviews even if you’re having apprehensions about talking about your own achievements. The practice is essential, and fortunately, interview questions can be rehearsed in advance. The key to flawless interviews is preparation. Here are some guidelines you can apply to boost your chances of aceing that interview and impressing your potential employers.
Be comfortable with difficult questions.
Interviewers ask challenging questions, partially because they wish to gather information as well as because they want to help you navigate your way out of potentially contentious issues and worries. Consider for instance the question "Why do you want to leave your current job?"
The answer could be due to managerial issues, or worries regarding work-life balance, for instance. No matter the answer however, the manner that you formulate your answer will demonstrate your capacity to be an objective and fair observer. Be honest and articulate your reasoning with as much objectivity as feasible. This means removing emotional responses like answers based on feelings or sentiments that are not supported by facts.
Other questions to prepare for are "What did you do to get this role?", "Why should we choose the person we chose to hire?", or trick questions like "Why should you not take you on?" The key is to not lose composure and plan your thoughts well.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Introduce your idea and follow with a brief argument or explanation of why you responded a certain way. Add examples or further elaborate. After you’ve clarified your points thoroughly, go back to your previous point.
In the same way, if you’re required to explain your participation in a project or task and you are required to describe your involvement, you could utilize the STAR Method, which is often used when responding to selection criteria. When you use STAR it is necessary to describe a scenario,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken as well as the final result.
The body language
Acting naturally in a stressful environment can be a daunting task However, you can learn to communicate professionally. Sit in front of a mirror or ask a trusted person to inquire about your concerns and observe your behavior. Are you flitting or shifting around with a nervousness? Are you looking uneasy, aggressive or reserved in your body expression? Do you use appropriate gestures? Do your facial expressions match what you want to convey? Do you convey sincerity, authenticity and genuine interest?
Be aware of your strengths and weaknesses
Before the interview, ensure that you go over the job description once more. Assuming you read the job description and used the roles and responsibilities outlined in it to alter and personalize your resume and other document of selection It is crucial to think about the job description to honestly present yourself to the interviewer. Be upfront and honest on your strength and weakness. Being truthful about your strengths can allow the interviewer to note your strengths as a prospect. But, indicating your intention to improve your weaknesses is just as important.
Prepare questions
Another important aspect of the interview is showing genuine interest in the job and within the company. The best person to approach is the interviewer. If you’ve noticed something you like from the job descriptions or if you have concerns that weren’t answered by their FAQ page or their guide questions (which are typically found within the job packet or in their general hiring page about section) Bring them up at the end of the interview, when your interviewer asks you to pose questions. Some thought-provoking questions you may ask your employer
"How do I become the most suitable person for the jobif given the chance to work alongside you and your colleagues?"
"Does the company has any major projects going on at the moment"
"What are the possibilities for further development and training?"
Know your salary expectations
Benefits and salary packages are often advertised with the job (or within a set of options if applying through SEEK). However, interviewers could inquire about the amount you anticipate earning. One important tip is to provide a range in which you would like your salary to fall instead of offering an exact or fixed number. Be sure to keep the range tight instead of giving an expansive margin. If, for instance, you expect to make $75,000 a year, an appropriate range would be in the $73,000 to $80,000 area or anywhere within the $10,000 range. Be mindful of other benefits and perks too and think about these when you think about your salary goals.
Inputting these steps into your pocket is crucial to equip yourself with the confidence to answer the toughest questions. Be confident, be self-assured, and be bold.
For help with the recruitment process, documents and certificates, as well as for interview preparation, you may get in touch with Perth Resume. Our knowledgeable and professional consultants are able to guide you through the interview preparation steps. Contact us today to receive a complimentary quote or to call us directly to speak with one of our experts on 1300 291 293.
