A Guide to Interview Preparation
A major and intimidating aspects of job searching is the fear of an interview. It is a normal consequence of seeking acceptance and approval from others in particular from potential employers. Although talking about oneself may be a natural thing for some but others feel nervous about being asked about their professional or previous accomplishments. Perhaps because of modesty, or the anxiety that comes from being asked questions that are personal to them interviews have turned out to be one of the most intimidating aspects that are required to hire.
This doesn’t have to be the situation.
Interviews are a great means for the candidate to prove their capabilities as well as their accomplishments and capabilities. It’s been a while since you’ve made it through the first step by submitting your resume to its way through ATS scanners and your name being shortlisted for an interview. This is the chance to showcase and elaborate further on your resume, experience, and key skills and expertise is the proverbial foot in the door when you convince the interviewer that you have what it takes this increases your chances of passing through the next phase of the final selection process.
You can, fortunately, prepare for interviews even if you’re having concerns about presenting your achievements. Practice is key, and fortunately, interview questions can be rehearsed prior to the time. The secret to successful interviews is preparation, and here are some guidelines you can use to increase your chances of nailing the interview and impressing your potential employers.
Be comfortable with difficult questions.
Interviewers will ask you tough questions, in part, to elicit information as well as since they want to help you come out of potentially contentious topics and issues. Take for example the question "Why are you resigning from your current role?"
The answer to the question could be due to managerial issues, or worries with work-life balance, etc. Whatever the reason however, the manner the way you frame the answer will indicate your capacity to be a fair and objective observer. Respond honestly and explain your responses using as much objectivity feasible. This means removing any emotional responses such as answers based on feelings or sentiments and are not supported by evidence.
Other questions to prepare for include "What inspired you to apply for this position?", "Why should we choose the person we chose to hire?", or trick questions such as "Why should you not employ you?" The key is not to lose your cool and organize your thoughts in a systematic manner.
Before speaking, outline your thoughts using the PREP method: POINT-REASON-EXPLANATION/EXAMPLE/-POINT. Lead with your point and then follow it up with a short argument or explanation of why you responded a certain way. Next, provide specific examples or provide more details. Once you’ve thoroughly explained you can go back to your original point.
Similarly, if you are asked to describe your involvement on a project or task and you are required to describe your involvement, you could employ this method. STAR Method, which is also usually used in responding to criteria for selection. When you use STAR it is necessary to describe an Situation,followed by a Task,then a description of the actionstaken, and lastly, the result.
All it is in the body language
Acting naturally in a stressful situation could be a daunting task however, you can learn to communicate professionally. You can sit in front of a mirror or have a trusted companion to ask you questions and observe your behavior. Are you moving or fidgeting about with anxiety? Do you seem intimidating, stiff, defensive or reserved in your body language? Do you use appropriate gestures? Are your facial expressions in line with the message you’re trying to convey? Do you convey sincerity, authenticity and genuine enthusiasm?
Consider your strengths and weaknesses
Before you go to the interview, ensure that you go over the job description once more. Assuming you read the job description and utilized the roles and responsibilities outlined in the description to make changes to your resume and other document of selection It is crucial to look at the job description in order to accurately present yourself to the interviewer. Be candid and open concerning your abilities and shortcomings. Being realistic regarding your strengths will allow the interviewer to note your strengths as a prospective client. However, announcing your intention to improve your weak points will be equally relevant.
Prepare questions
Another key aspect of the interview is to show genuine interest in the role and in the business. The best person to approach questions is your interviewer. If you have noticed something intriguing from the job descriptions or if you’ve got any questions that were left unanswered by their FAQ page or guide questions (which can be found in the job packet or their general hiring page about section) Bring them up during the interview when the interviewer asks you to pose questions. The most interesting questions you could ask your employer include:
"How can I be an ideal candidate for the job, should I be given the opportunity to be part of members of your staff?"
"Does the company have any major projects on currently"
"What are the possibilities for advancement and further training?"
Know your salary expectations
Salary packages and other benefits are generally advertised with the position (or in a variety, if applying through SEEK). However, the interviewer may inquire about the amount you anticipate earning. One important tip is to provide a range in which you’d like your earnings to be, rather than providing an exact number or a set amount. Keep your range as narrow as possible instead of offering a any wide range. For instance, if anticipate earning $75,000 per year, a good range would be anywhere in the $73,000 to $80,000 or anyplace within the $10,000 range. Be mindful of additional perks and benefits too and think about these when you think about your salary expectations.
The preparation steps you have in your back pocket is essential to ensure you have the readiness to face the toughest questions. Be confident, feel confident and courageous.
To assist with recruitment-related documents and credentials and for interview preparation, contact Perth Resume. Our friendly and highly trained consultants are able to help you with your interview preparation phases. Contact us now for an free quote or call us direct for a chat with one of our experts on 1300 291 293.
