Steps to Interview Readiness
A major and frightening aspect of job hunts is the interview stage. The fear of an interview is a natural result of wanting to seek acceptance and approval from others in particular from potential employers. Although talking about oneself may be natural for some but others feel nervous about being asked questions regarding their career or past accomplishments. Perhaps due to modesty or the discomfort arising from being asked personal questions interviews have turned out to be an extremely stressful parts in the process of hiring.
This does not have to be the situation.
Interviews are an important method for applicants to prove their capabilities, achievements, and potentials. You have already been through the first step and your resume has made an appearance on ATS scanners, and your name being shortlisted for an interview. This opportunity to present and elaborate upon your resume, experience as well as key abilities and knowledge is the aforementioned entrance into the interview: if you convince the interviewer you have what it takes that increases your chances to be selected for the next stage of the selection process.
Luckily, you can prepare for interviews in case you’re experiencing concerns about presenting your personal achievements. It is important to practice and luckily, interview questions can be practiced before the date. The key to a flawless interview is preparation, and here are some guidelines you can follow to boost your chances of aceing that interview and impressing your prospective employers:
Make yourself comfortable when faced with tricky questions.
Interviewers are able to ask tough questions mostly because they are trying to elicit information as well as because they want to see how you can get rid of potentially contentious issues and issues. Consider for instance the question "Why do you want to leave your current position?"
The reason for this may be because of management concerns, or issues regarding work-life balance, for instance. Whatever the reason however, the manner in which you phrase your response will signal your capacity to be a fair and objective observer. Respond honestly and explain your answer with as much objectivity as possible. This includes removing emotional responses like responses that are based solely on sentiments or feelings, and do not have any basis in evidence.
Other questions to prepare for include "What made you apply for this position?", "Why should be hiring us?", or trick questions like "Why do us not take you on?" 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. Begin with your topic and then provide a concise note of the reason or reasons why you chose to respond in a specific way. After that, you can add examples or further elaborate. After you have explained thoroughly you can go back to your original point.
If you’re asked to write about your involvement in a project or task, you may apply the STAR Method, which is also usually used in responding the selection requirements. When using STAR the first thing you need to do is write the situation,followed by a Task,then a description of Actionstaken followed by the Result.
It’s all in body language
Acting naturally in a stressful environment can be a daunting task, but you can always try to practice professional communication. You can sit in front of a mirror or ask a trusted person to ask you questions and take note of your actions. Are you moving or fidgeting about nervously? Are you looking uneasy, aggressive or shut off 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 authenticity, openness and genuine concern?
Consider your strengths and weaknesses.
Before the interview, you should go over the job description once more. If you have read the job description and applied the roles and responsibilities outlined in the description to make changes to your resume and other selection documents It is essential to consider the job description to clearly package yourself for the interviewer. Be honest and upfront on your strength and weakness. Being realistic regarding your strengths will allow the interviewer to see your unique selling points as a potential client. But, indicating your intention to address your weaknesses is just as significant.
Prepare questions
Another aspect to consider in the interview is to show genuine interest for the position and the company. The best person to inquire for questions during the interview is the one you interview. If you have noticed something intriguing from the job descriptions, or if you’ve got any questions not answered through their FAQ or the guide questions (which typically are found in the job packet or in the general page for hiring about section), raise these during the interview when the interviewer encourages you to ask questions. Some thought-provoking questions you may ask your employer are:
"How can I be the most suitable person for the task, if given the chance to be part of you and your colleagues?"
"Does the company have any major projects underway currently"
"What are the possibilities for further development and training?"
Know your salary expectations
Benefits and salary packages are typically advertised along with the job (or as part of a range, in the case of SEEK). But, interviewers might want to know what salary you are expecting. A good tip is to provide a range in which you would like your salary to fall instead of offering an exact, fixed amount. Be sure to keep the limits to a certain extent instead of allowing a an expansive margin. For example, if you are expecting to earn $75,000 per year, a good range would be anywhere in the $73,000 to $80,000 or anything in the range of $10,000. Be mindful of other perks and benefits too and think about these when you consider your salary expectations.
These steps to prepare in your pocket is crucial to equip yourself with the readiness to face the toughest questions. Be confident, feel confident and be courageous.
For assistance in recruitment-related documents and credentials and for interview preparation, you may reach out to Perth Resume. Our professional and friendly consultants are able to help you through your preparatory phases. Contact us today to receive an free quote or call us direct to speak with one of our consultants on 1300 291 293.
